STACKS 


AN 

ADDRESS 

DELIVERED 


AT  THE  DEDICATION  OF  THE  NEW  BUILDING 


OP 

BRISTOL  ACADEMY  IN  TAUNTON, 

AUGUST  2 5,  IS  52, 


By  C.  C.  FELTON, 

PROFESSOR  IN  HARVARD  UNIVERSITY. 


WITH  AN  APPENDIX, 


CONTAINING  AN 


HISTOKICAL  SKETCH  OF  THE  ACADEMY,  AN  ACCOUNT 
OF  THE  FESTIVAL,  AND  A LIST  OF  THE 
TRUSTEES  AND  PRECEPTORS. 


CAMBRIDGE  : 

METCALF  AND  COMPANY, 

PRINTERS  TO  THE  UNIVERSITY. 


1852. 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2016 


https://archive.org/details/addressdelivered00felt_0 


ADDRESS. 


It  is  a pleasing  proof  of  advancing  civilization,  that  the 
opening  of  a house  like  this,  consecrated  to  the  education 
of  the  young,  has  become  an  occasion  of  interest,  drawing 
together  a public  assembly,  in  this  busy  season  of  the  year. 
Great  historical  events,  — victories  gained  on  the  battle- 
field, — the  birthday  of  a nation’s  independence, — the  fame 
of  a great  ancestry,  — the  memories  of  the  heroic  dead, 
— have  in  all  ages  been  celebrated  at  stated  times  with 
discourse,  and  song,  and  pious  offering.  These  retrospec- 
tive commemorations  are  the  natural  outflows  of  the  hu- 
man heart,  — the  eloquent  utterance  of  manly  sympathy. 
But  to-day  our  thoughts  look  forward  to  the  future,  as 
well  as  backward  to  the  past.  It  is  not  only  the  fathers, 
but  the  children,  for  whom  these  decent  festivities  are 
celebrated. 

“ Sure  He  that  made  us  with  such  large  discourse, 

Looking  before  and  after,” 

will  graciously  smile  on  a day,  set  apart  in  honor  of  no 
martial  glory,  no  bloody  triumph  over  which  the  imagina- 
tion delights  to  throw  a bewitching  and  delusive  splendor, 
but  filled  with  aspirations  for  the  intellectual  and  moral 
good  of  those  who  are  to  come  after  us.  I hail  it  as  an 
omen  of  good,  and  a proof  that,  amidst  the  engrossing 
pursuits  of  the  present,  a wise  forethought  of  the  fu- 


4 


ture  has  not  been  forgotten.  I acknowledge  with  respect 
the  honor  of  being  the  organ  of  your  thoughts  on  this 
auspicious  day.  This  fair  structure,  consecrated  to  the 

cause  of  higher  education,  reared  by  private  liberality, 

uprising  in  this  pleasant  town,  on  which  the  summer’s 
sunlight  falls  so  lovingly,  — where  the  shadows  of  the  sil- 
ver-woven clouds  chase  each  other  across  the  green  lawn 
and  the  swelling  upland,  while  the  breath  of  heaven  whis- 
pers gladness  and  peace  through  the  leafy  garniture  of  trees 
and  groves,  — where  to  the  gifts  of  friendly  nature  the 
hand  of  man  has  added  the  wealth  of  industry  and  art,  — 
is  a sight  which  the  eye  of  patriotism  and  philanthropy 
may  dwell  upon  with  a sacred  and  homefelt  delight.  Here 
your  children  and  your  children’s  children  are  to  be  so 
trained  that  they  shall  find  their  true  places  in  the  com- 
plicated scheme  of  society,  and  fulfil  their  parts  with 
honor  to  themselves  and  advantage  to  their  country.  How 
noble  the  purpose  these  generous  citizens  cherished,  the 
builders  of  this  house,  as  with  the  blessing  of  Heaven  they 
piled  its  walls  and  stretched  its  overhanging  roof  from  side 
to  side ! 

Education  has  long  ceased  to  be  exclusively  the  subject 
of  private  reflection:  statesmen  and  legislative  bodies 
have  become  aware  of  its  transcendent  importance  to  the 
public  welfare.  It  is,  indeed,  no  new  theme;  and  yet, 
though  as  old  as  the  first  man,  it  is  as  new  as  the  last-born 
infant,  whose  wail,  falling  on  the  mother’s  ear,  implores  her 
tender  care  and  training.  It  has  been  a topic  of  common- 
place for  thousands  of  years,  and  libraries  are  crowded 
with  the  volumes  that  have  been  written  upon  it ; but  it  is 
still  as  fresh  as  the  morning,  as  original  as  the  human  soul, 
of  the  deepest  interest  to  every  being  unto  whom  God  has 
sent  a child,  — to  every  soul  that  wears  the  shape  of  man. 
It  was  pondered  over  by  the  Egyptian  priest,  as  he  in- 
structed the  children  of  the  favored  caste,  or  inscribed  the 
mystic  lore  of  his  nation  on  the  column  and  the  obe- 
lisk, for  an  eternal  remembrance ; — it  was  meditated  by 
the  Grecian  scholar  or  philosopher,  discoursing  to  troops  of 


5 


ardent  and  admiring  disciples,  under  the  olive-grove  of 
the  Academy,  — 

“ Plato’s  retirement,  where  the  Attic  bird 
Trilled  her  thick- warbled  notes  the  summer  long,”  — 

in  the  painted  Stoa,  along  the  murmuring  Ilissus ; — it 
was  discoursed  by  the  Roman  rhetorician,  teaching  in  the 
schools  the  precepts  of  his  art,  and  with  them  all  the 
knowledge  of  his  times;  — it  filled  the  thoughts  of  the 
cloistered  monk  of  the  Middle  Ages,  as  he  trained  his 
choirs,  or  illuminated  his  Missal ; — it  was  preached  by  the 
clergy  of  the  modern  world,  who,  after  the  darkness  of 
the  Middle  Ages  rolled  away,  assumed  the  exclusive  charge 
of  the  instruction  of  the  young.  Legislators  — Lycurgus 
and  Solon  — numbered  it  among  the  weightiest  matters  of 
the  law.  Philosophers, — Plato  in  his  Republic  and  Laws  ; 
Cicero,  Quintilian,  in  their  eloquent  treatises ; the  sages 
of  the  modern  world,  Bacon,  Milton,  Locke ; the  greatest 
minds  of  the  present  age,  — have  spent  upon  this  great 
theme  their  deepest  studies  and  wisest  thoughts.  But 
it  has  been  the  painful  conviction  of  all  former  ages,  that 
only  a few  can  be  lifted  up  from  the  vulgar  level,  while  the 
mass  of  mankind  must  remain  hopelessly  sunk  in  igno- 
rance, — slaves  to  the  soil,  the  loom,  or  the  workshop,  — by 
a doom  as  hopeless  in  fact,  if  not  as  sad  in  name,  as  that 
which  binds  the  hereditary  bondman  to  the  dull  round  of 
his  daily  tasks  at  the  command  of  another.  The  educa- 
tion of  the  whole  people  is  a grand  idea  of  modern  times, 
twin-born  with  the  doctrine  of  equal  rights  and  the  uni- 
versal brotherhood  of  man.  Before  the  practical  applica- 
tion of  this  doctrine,  the  utmost  extent  of  education  for 
the  toiling  multitude  — sometimes  thought  of,  but  never 
effected  — was  to  give  them  a few  rudiments  of  instruction, 

— to  read  with  stammering,  — to  pick  out  slowly  and  with 
difficulty  a page  in  the  Catechism  or  a chapter  in  the  Bible, 

— to  write  a scrawling  hand,  enough,  perhaps,  to  sign  a 
contract,  or  keep  some  rude  account.  To  make  the  mind 
competent  to  strenuous  exertion  by  unfolding  its  godlike 


6 


faculties,  to  exalt  the  soul  by  opening1  to  its  vision  the 
truths  of  science  and  the  creations  of  genius,  throughout 
the  body  politic,  certainly  did  not  enter  the  contemplation 
of  any  people  until  the  American  age.  “ Athens,  the  eye 
of  Greece,  mother  of  arts  and  arms,”  had  a refined  and 
highly  educated  civic  population.  With  a republican  wis- 
dom, unequalled  elsewhere  in  the  ancient  world,  she  gave 
a poetical  and  intellectual  character  to  her  public  amuse- 
ments, and  diffused  a refined  taste  for  art  even  throughout 
her  mobs.  For  the  people  — humorously  personified  by  the 
comic  writers  under  the  name  of  Demos  — her  sculptors 
hewed  the  statues  of  heroes,  demigods,  and  gods,  from 
the  quarries  of  Pentelicus;  — for  Demos  and  his  religion 
the  superb  temples,  whose  marble  harmonies  have  never 
been  equalled,  nor  till  yesterday  understood,  rose  on  every 
height  and  headland,  glistening  with  beauty  in  the  en- 
chanted air  of  Greeee ; — for  the  Demos  the  stately  thea- 
tres were  reared,  wherein  were  enacted  the  loftiest  trage- 
dies, and  the  wittiest  comedies,  freshly  wrought  by  the 
affluent  enthusiasm  of  genius,  with  every  returning  spring ; 
— for  the  Demos  the  greatest  of  orators  toiled  over  his 
discourses  by  the  midnight  lamp,  not  daring  to  pronounce 
them  until  every  sentence  had  been  burnished  to  the  most 
exquisite  finish  of  structure  and  rhythm,  and  he  had  pre- 
pared himself  to  deliver  them  by  an  arduous  discipline, 

which  no  fluent  speaker  of  to-day  dreams  of  enduring ; 

and  this  Demos,  whose  education  was  so  cared  for,  whose 
sensibility  to  beauty  in  poetry  and  art  was  so  alive,  whose 
judgment  of  literature  and  eloquence  was  trained  to  such 
keen  and  faultless  discrimination,  that  modern  criticism 
seems  dull  in  comparison,  maintained  his  republican  con- 
stitution longer  than  any  other  people  of  the  ancient  world, 
and  left  a literature  which  has  ever  since  been  the  school  of 
beauty  and  culture  to  all  mankind. 

But  the  republic  rested  on  the  basis  of  slavery.  In  illus- 
trious Athens  toil  was  servile  and  the  work  of  slaves.  In 
the  city  of  Athena,  peopled  with  the  divinest  works  of  art, 
the  air  vocal  with  poetry  and  eloquence,  no  thought  had 


7 


been  conceived  of  sharing  these  accumulated  blessings  with 
the  millions  born  to  labor.  Here,  as  elsewhere,  they  strug- 
gled on  through  a painful  existence,  uncheered  by  the  light 
of  knowledge,  unconscious  of  human  sympathy  and  the 
sweet  sense  of  brotherhood,  hopeless  of  being  remembered 
in  the  all-hail  hereafter.  A vast  majority  of  the  living  men 
and  women  were  slaves,  drudging  at  their  daily  tasks  in  the 
workshop  or  field,  or  only  learning  the  arts  of  luxury  that 
might  minister  to  the  sensual  enjoyments  of  their  masters. 
And  no  one  has  read  history  aright  who  has  not  seen  in 
slavery,  wherever  existing,  the  germ  of  national  disaster  and 
decay.  But  notwithstanding  this  inward  malady,  and  with 
such  an  enormous  limitation  of  the  idea  of  free  citizen- 
ship, so  life-giving  was  the  general  education  of  the  peoplej 
that  they  enjoyed  a long,  splendid,  and  powerful  national 
existence,  and  after  that  was  over  continued  to  rule,  by 
their  science  and  philosophy,  their  poetry,  art,  and  elo- 
quence, and  will  rule  for  ever,  the  empire  of  the  human 
mind. 

But  the  civilization  of  the  ancient  world  went  down  in 
the  darkness  of  the  Middle  Ages.  Through  that  sorrowful, 
but  teeming  period,  again  the  toiling  millions  toiled  on  from 
age  to  age,  under  the  feudal  burdens  of  lords  and  barons 
scarcely  less  barbarous  than  themselves,  and  the  spiritual 
despotism  of  a priesthood,  who  alone  held  the  keys  of 
knowledge  as  well  as  of  heaven.  Out  of  that  chaos  and 
wreck  of  the  elder  world,  the  constitutions  of  modern  so- 
ciety sprang;  the  distinctions  of  classes  according  to  the 
accident  of  birth  were  drawn  broader,  deeper,  and  more 
impassable  than  they  ever  had  been  in  the  Grecian  Repub- 
lic; and  these  distinctions,  modified  in  various  degrees 
by  the  progressive  spirit  of  the  age,  are  the  most  strik- 
ing characteristic  of  the  existing  European  world.  The 
unlettered  baron  of  the  Middle  Ages,  who  stamped  his  sig- 
nature with  the  hilt  of  his  sword,  and  whose  deepest  lore 
was  just  enough  to  sing  a lay  of  war  or  love,  has  passed 
from  the  stage,  having  finished  his  stormy  part.  He  is  fol- 
lowed by  his  descendant  or  representative,  the  high-bred 


8 


nobleman,  surrounded  by  the  gathered  luxuries  of  centuries, 
born  to  command  in  the  senate,  the  cabinet,  or  the  field, 
inheriting  with  his  title  a preeminence  in  dignity,  undis- 
puted among  his  fellow-men.  He  is  shielded  from  every 
sordid  care ; he  is  lifted  out  of  the  sphere  of  vulgar  anxieties, 
into  a serener  air ; he  is  educated  at  the  most  venerable  seats 
of  learning;  his  tastes  are  unconsciously  refined  by  the  pres- 
ence of  every  beautiful  production  of  art;  his  faculties  are 
unfolded  by  delightful  studies  ; he  is  fed  on  nectar  and  am- 
brosia, until  in  inward  consciousness  and  outward  seeming 
he  is  grown  almost  a being  of  a different  nature  from  his 
struggling  brother,  who  toils  in  sweat  and  tears  and  ago- 
ny  by  his  side.  Ah,  no!  both  have  the  same  nature,  the 
gift  of  God ; the  same  faculties,  the  gift  of  God  ; the  same 
capacities  for  sorrow  and  joy;  before  them  lies  the  same 
eternal  world,  into  which  the  vanishing  years  are  fast  hur- 
rying them.  But  the  aristocratic  system,  born  in  the  feudal 
ages,  and  living  on  into  the  nineteenth  century,  and  deter- 
mining the  kind  and  degree  of  education  to  which  the  sepa- 
rated classes  may  aspire,  has  wrought  these  enormous  differ- 
ences in  their  present  condition.  In  feudal  societies  the  labor 
of  the  hands  is  still  vulgar  and  servile ; in  many  of  them, 
even  commercial  enterprise  is  inconsistent  with  gentility;  in 
some,  authorship  and  the  profession  of  the  Fine  Arts  stand 
only  one  remove  above  the  handicrafts,  and  command  only 
a slow  and  reluctant  admission  ifito  the  saloons  of  the  ele- 
gant world.  In  several  countries  this  state  of  things  and 
this  tone  of  sentiment  are  passing  away;  and  it  cannot  be 
denied  that  the  English  aristocracy  have  nobly  met  the  duties 
of  their  position  in  the  modern  world.  The  colossal  struc- 
ture of  British  power  rests  on  agriculture  and  commerce ; 
and  the  upper  classes  are  strengthened  constantly  by  vigor- 
ous recruits  from  below.  Wealth,  eminent  distinction  in 
letters,  professional  fame,  public  service,  are  titles  of  nobility, 
which  the  ancient  aristocracy  and  the  government  readily 
and  wisely  acknowledge,  and  crown  with  the  highest  hon- 
ois  of  society  and  the  state.  The  shackles  of  poverty  and 
low  birth  are  often  cast  aside,  and  the  nobleman  of  nature 


9 


mounts  to  the  seat  of  power  and  fame,  amidst  the  applauses 
of  long-descended  rivals  whom  he  has  beaten  in  the  glorious 
strife. 

But  when  the  settlement  of  New  England  commenced, 
a new  order  of  things  took  its  origin.  Our  fathers,  indeed, 
did  not  foresee  the  imperial  extent  of  our  territory,  nor  the 
grand  results  of  the  principles  they  established.  They  only 
thought  to  cut  roads  a few  miles  inward  from  the  sea-coast, 
and  contemplated  building  up  a few  small,  well-ordered 
communities,  on  the  model  of  a Christian  commonwealth, 
according  to  their  conception  of  the  teachings  of  Scripture. 
When  they  were  disturbed  by  the  inroads  of  heretical  opin- 
ions, they  made  short  work  with  the  heretics  by  the  scourge, 
the  prison,  and  the  gallows ; and  when  the  red-skinned 
owners  of  the  wilderness  lifted  the  tomahawk  against  their 
intrusion,  they  smote  the  heathen  with  the  edge  of  the 
sword,  even  as  the  people  of  God  smote  the  idolatrous 
tribes  of  Canaan,  and  took  possession  of  their  lands. 

But  to  their  eternal  honor  be  it  said,  they  laid  the  founda- 
tions of  their  commonwealth  in  learning  and  piety.  Among 
their  earliest  legislative  cares  was  the  providing  for  the 
universal  education  of  their  children  ; the  establishment  of 
schools  at  the  public  expense,  which  all  not  only  might,  but 
should  be  compelled  to  attend ; the  foundation  of  a college, 
where  human  learning  should  be  cultivated,  and  the  knowl- 
edge of  God’s  word,  in  the  original  tongues,  should  not  be 
left  to  die  out.  It  is  true  that,  though  strong  men,  they  were 
m some  respects  narrow-minded  men ; but  they  laid  the  cor- 
ner-stone of  their  political  edifice  in  principles  that  have  cor- 
rected their  personal  errors,  and  that  have  set  right  the  wrong 
tendencies  of  their  own  times,  which  they  strove  to  give 
permanently  to  their  communities.  They  were  enlightened 
enough  to  see  what  had  never  been  seen  before,  and  pa- 
triotic enough  to  do  what  never  had  been  done  before,  — to 
see  that  universal  education  was  the  only  safeguard  of  the 
state,  and  to  enact  that  education  should  be  provided  for 
all.  Their  society  was  planted  under  novel  and  extraordi- 
nary circumstances,  in  a wilderness  separated  by  the  roar- 
2 


10 


ing  sea  from  the  ancient  civilization  wherein  they  had  them- 
selves been  nurtured ; and  it  was  not  unnatural  that  they 
should  blend  with  their  scheme  of  public  education  their 
dogmatic  views  of  the  Christian  faith,  which  they  mistook 
for  the  essence  of  Christianity  itself.  The  plan  was  proof 
of  the  highest  human  wisdom  ; the  error  was  only  the  sign 
of  common  human  infirmity.  The  principle  is  lasting  as 
truth,  and  vital  to  the  prolonged  existence  of  the  republic. 
The  error  belonged  to  an  age,  and  the  natural  growth  of 
the  principle  has  easily  and  safely  done  it  away.  When  I 
study  the  earliest  legislation  of  the  Pilgrim  Fathers,  I am 
filled  with  admiration  of  their  wisdom,  wonder  at  their  fore- 
knowledge, and  reverence  for  their  steadfast  virtues,  their 
noble  characters,  their  unshaken  faith  ; and  I thank  God  that 
he  sent  these,  his  chosen  servants,  to  lay  broad  and  deep 
the  foundations  of  an  empire  of  free  and  educated  men. 
No  race  of  men  are  under  such  obligations  to  their  prede- 
cessors as  we  owe  to  our  Puritan  ancestors ; and  when  we 
prove  forgetful  of  their  memory,  or  faithless  to  their  illus- 
trious example,  God  will  surely  forget  us,  and  punish  our 
faithlessness  with  his  consuming  wrath. 

The  Puritan  scheme  of  education  contemplated  some 
education  for  all,  and  the  highest  education  for  some. 
They  therefore  founded,  not  only  common  schools,  but 
grammar  and  classical  schools,  and  colleges ; and  they  did 
this  at  the  outset,  not  waiting,  under  the  delusive  influence 
of  political  economy,  for  the  operation  of  the  law  of  de- 
mand and  supply  to  balance  each  other.  They  proceeded 
on  a higher  view  of  man’s  nature,  condition,  and  wants, 
and  laid  at  once  the  foundation  of  the  highest  institution 
of  learning  known  in  their  age,  and  possible  in  their  cir- 
cumstances. They  did  one  thing  without  leaving  the  other 
undone.  The  college  rose  side  by  side  with  the  school. 
They  opened  a fountain-head  as  soon  as  they  had  cut  the 
channel  for  the  stream  to  flow,  indulging  in  no  fallacious 
theory  that  a fertilizing  river  would  enrich  the  earth  with 
verdurous  beauty,  unless  abundant  springs  fed  it  from  a 
higher  source.  My  reverence  for  the  wisdom  of  the  Puri- 


11 


tans  is  not  diminished  when  I compare  their  legislation 
with  our  own.  There  is  a tendency  now,  — I will  not  say 
to  overrate  the  value  of  common  schools  and  practical 
education,  for  they  cannot  be  exalted  beyond  the  just 
measure  of  their  importance  to  the  public  and  private  wel- 
fare, — but  to  underrate  and  depreciate  that  higher  culture 
which  universities  are  intended  to  bestow,  and  those  liter- 
ary and  scientific  studies  which  employ  and  reward  the 
devotion  of  a life.  Against  these,  and  against  the  institu- 
tions which  foster  them,  ignorant  or  designing  demagogues, 
putting  on  the  hypocritical  mask  of  friendship  for  the  peo- 
ple, sometimes  strive  to  arouse  the  popular  prejudice,  as 
anti-popular  and  aristocratic  in  their  tendencies.  Public 
favor  and  legislative  bounty  have  been  invoked  almost 
exclusively  for  the  town  or  common  schools.  Certain 
studies  are  denounced  as  useless  and  antiquated,  and  those 
only  which  have  a visible  application  to  the  material  busi- 
ness of  to-day  are  held  up  as  entitled  to  the  regards  of 
the  people.  The  Greek  and  Roman  classics  come  in  for 
the  largest  share  of  this  species  of  distrust,  and  the  Greek 
and  Latin  languages  are  opprobriously  styled  the  dead 
languages.  I think  I may  fairly  claim  to  be  an  impartial 
observer.  I have  studied  and  taught  in  common  schools ; 
I have  constantly  watched  our  system  of  public  education 
for  more  than  five-and-twenty  years ; I have  interested 
myself  in  lyceums,  institutes,  libraries,  lectures,  for  the 
promotion  of  popular  instruction ; for  several  years  I have 
had,  and  I still  have,  an  official  connection  with  our  com- 
mon schools,  as  a member  of  the  school  committee  in 
the  city  where  I reside.  I have  also  been  engaged  more 
years  than  I like  to  mention  in  the  study  and  teaching  of 
those  dead,  aristocratic  languages  and  literatures,  in  old 
Harvard  ; and  if  I am  not  an  impartial  observer,  it  is  from 
no  want  of  the  opportunity  of  knowing,  from  no  lack  of 
many-sided  experience.  No  man  can  estimate  more  thor- 
oughly  than  I do  the  transcendent  importance  of  physical 
science,  not  merely  for  its  direct  practical  bearing  on  the 
comforts  of  life,  but  for  the  beautiful  demonstrations  it 


12 


affords  of  the  cardinal  truths  of  religion.  But  I will  venture 
to  say,  not  that  I think,  but  that  I know,  the  cultivation 
of  classical  literature  and  of  the  higher  mathematics  to  be 
essential  to  the  civilization  of  a state  in  our  age.  Destroy 
your  colleges  and  high  schools,  and  your  common  school 
system  will  pine  away  and  die.  Strike  out  of  existence 
those  institutions  in  which  the  intellectual  wealth  of  the 
Past  is  hoarded  up,  and  old  experience  ceases  to  make 
the  youthful  Present  sage ; the  book  of  history  is  closed, 
the  memory  of  foregone  glory  vanishes ; the  hope  of  the 
future,  the  best  incitement  to  noble  minds,  is  dead ; the 
voice  of  fame  is  inaudible ; and  human  aspirations,  like 
human  memories,  are  bounded  by  the  narrow  horizon  that 
shuts  in  the  experience  of  a day.  No ! literature  and 
language  are  not  dead ; they  are  among  the  most  vital 
influences  that  keep  the  mind  of  a nation  and  the  heart 
of  a people  alive  and  susceptible  of  the  finest  impulses 
and  highest  aims.  The  ruling  races  of  the  world,— 
they  who  have  made  the  history  of  man  by  unfolding  the 
arts  that  embellish  life,  and  the  sciences  that  concentrate 
and  diversify  it,  and  the  literature  that  refines  its  coarseness 
into  elegance,  — these  races  are  bound  together  in  a pecu- 
liar manner,  by  affinities  of  language  and  modes  of  thought, 
fiom  the  dawn  of  history  to  the  present  day,  from  the 
banks  of  the  Indus  and  Ganges  to  the  western  shores  of 
the  American  continent.  At  each  step  of  their  brilliant 
progress  through  space  and  time,  the  monuments  of  their 
labors,  the  records  of  their  experience,  the  results  of  their 
wisdom,  the  creations  of  their  genius,  are  left  embodied 
and  enshrined  in  those  wonderful  languages,  — links  in  the 
chain  that  began  with  the  Sanscrit  four  thousand  years 
ago,  and  ends  with  the  English  I am  speaking  at  the 
present  moment.  Midway  in  this  series  of  the  forms  of 
human  speech,  so  beautifully  moulded  to  the  ever-chang- 
ing complexity  of  human  thought,  — midw^ay  in  this  long 
course  of  time,  — midway  between  the  spot  on  which  we 
stand,  and  the  primitive  seat  of  our  race  on  the  sacred 
soil  of  Asia,  — stand  the  magnificent  languages,  literatures, 


13 


and  civilizations  of  Greece  and  Rome,  wherein  the  art, 
culture,  and  poetry  of  the  elder  Oriental  world  rose  to 
their  highest  point,  and  blossomed  into  their  consummate 
flower.  With  them  the  cycle  of  European  civilization  to 
which  we  belong  commences.  From  them  our  laws,  our 
politics,  our  arts,  our  poetry,  our  eloquence,  flow.  They 
took  from  Asia  and  Egypt  the  germs  of  culture ; we  take 
our  culture  from  them  full  grown.  The  Orient  began  the 
work ; Greece  carried  it  on,  with  a force  of  originality, 
an  affluence  of  talent,  a fervor  of  genius,  the  world  has 
never  since  beheld.  The  words  of  her  language  and  the 
felicities  of  her  thought  are  living  in  the  languages  we 
speak  and  the  thoughts  we  think  this  day.  While  I ad- 
dress you  here  and  now,  I use  the  elements  of  speech  that 
were  heard  thousands  of  years  ago  among  the  Brahmins 
of  the  Ganges ; that  were  listened  to,  freighted  with  deep- 
er thought,  in  fuller  cadences,  by  the  assemblies  and  courts 
and  schools  of  Athens,  and  in  the  Senate  and  Forum  of 
republican  Rome ; that  were  uttered,  in  confused  and  bro- 
ken tones,  down  through  the  mediaeval  age ; and  now  are 
touched  with  something  of  their  ancient  harmony,  wher- 
ever civilization  extends.  No ! there  is  no  dead  language, 
no  buried  thought.  From  the  childhood  of  the  race,  word 
and  thought  — the  undying  expression  of  immortal  con- 
ceptions — come  streaming  down  to  us  in  a blended  line 
of  living  light ; and  he  who  would  cut  off  that  living 
line  of  light  would  compel  us  to  walk  at  noonday  in  the 
shadow  of  disastrous  eclipse. 

It  is  no  part  of  my  object  to  enter  upon  a defence  of 
classical  education  before  this  enlightened  audience;  be- 
cause here,  where  you  have  built  up  an  institution  partly 
devoted  to  these  very  studies,  they  surely  need  no  defence ; 
but  I reassert  the  absolute  necessity  of  classical  education, 
in  any  comprehensive  scheme  of  national  culture,  founded 
on  a just  view  of  human  progress,  and  the  historical  devel- 
opment of  the  intellectual  culture  of  our  race ; and  I repeat, 
that  the  higher  education  which  embraces  these  studies  is 
just  as  much  a public  concern  as  the  teaching  of  the  alphabet 


14 


or  the  numeration-table;  as  truly  practical  as  book-keeping 
or  surveying.  I do  not  mean  to  say  that  every  individual 
in  a community  should  learn  Latin  and  Greek.  There 
must  be  a just  proportion  here,  as  in  all  other  things.  The 
life  of  man  is  the  more  intense,  the  more  it  is  diversified  • 
nor  is  that  life  conceivable  under  the  form  of  a society 
of  scholars  only,  discussing  quantities,  and  rhythms,  and 
particles,  and  Attic  reduplications.  No  one  occupation, 
whether  writing  Greek,  planting  corn,  leading  or  mislead- 
mg  juries,  preaching  to  the  conscience  of  sinners,  giving 
medicine  to  the  sick,  can  be  imagined  to  fill  up  the  picture 
of  a tolerable  existence.  No.  Let  us  have  scholars,  and 
lawyers,  and  doctors,  and  farmers,  and  merchants,  and  me- 
chanics ; let  us  have  artists,  and  singers,  and  players ; let 
us  have  every  form  of  activity,  whether  of  body  or  mind  • 
let  us  have  every  variety  of  talent  and  acquirement ; let  us’ 
have  every  opportunity  for  the  interchange  of  ideas,  and 
for  mutual  influences,  for  mental  and  moral  action  and  re- 
action, and  then  we  shall  have  the  happiest  and  most  in- 
tellectual society.  All  knowledge  is  desirable  and  pre- 
cious. If  I knew  a master  of  the  Chinese  language  and 
the  philosophy  of  Confucius,  I would  gladly  see  him  in 
the  society  to  which  I might  belong.  With  him  for  my 
neighbor,  I should  be  a wiser  and  more  learned  man;  for 
his  learning  and  wisdom,  drawn  from  those  far-off'  Eastern 
fountains,  would  surround  his  neighborhood  like  a lumi- 
nous sphere.  If  I knew  a man  who  understood  the  lan- 
guage and  could  expound  the  modes  of  thought  of  the 
Dakotas,  or  Pottawatimies,  I would  gladly  have  him  for 
my  neighbor  on  the  other  side.  I should  be  a wiser  man 
for  his  neighborhood  and  acquaintance;  through  him  I 
might  know  the  fresh  and  racy  thought,  the  forest  imagery, 
the  primeval  poetry,  the  condensed  and  energetic  expres- 
sion, of  my  wild  brother  who  early  took  to  the  woods,  and 
has  so  long  refused  to  be  called  back  again.  And  to  carry 
this  illustration  into  fact,  I feel  that  I am  a wiser  man,  that 
on  one  side  my  neighbor  is  the  great  geometer  who 
weighs  the  stars  and  measures  their  orbits,  and  on  the 


15 


other,  the  philosopher  who  not  only  expounds  the  ideas  of 
the  Creator  in  the  living  world,  but  reads  the  stony  pages 
of  our  earth’s  hoary  and  awful  history  before  the  birth 
of  man,  its  lord  and  master.  To  each  and  to  all  of  us, 
every  accession  of  knowledge,  and  every  addition  to  the 
number  of  learned  men,  is  a blessing  from  God. 

We  hear  much  said  about  self-educated  men ; but  self- 
education  is  impossible ; and  if  possible,  it  would  be  the 
worst  education  in  the  world.  We  are  educated  by  the 
sweet  influences  of  home,  and  by  our  experiences  abroad ; 
we  are  trained  by  poverty,  as  well  as  nurtured  by  wealth  ; 
the  winds  and  the  sea  and  the  stars  are  our  teachers ; our 
discipline  comes  from  the  happiness  and  the  sorrow  of  the 
fleeting  hour ; labor  is  our  schoolmaster,  and  idleness  is 
the  whip  that  scourges  us ; our  neighbors,  associates,  and 
friends  give  us  their  daily  lessons ; we  gather  knowledge 
from  the  books  we  read,  and  draw  instruction  from  the 
sights  we  see  ; we  take  our  degrees  in  the  schools,  acade- 
mies, and  colleges  of  our  country,  whether  we  go  to  them 
or  not.  The  scholar  who  speaks  to  us,  the  minister  who 
preaches  to  us,  the  lawyer  who  pleads  for  us,  the  lecturer 
who  discourses  at  the  lyceum,  are  all  our  educators. 

Franklin  is  called  a self-educated  man ; but  he  formed 
his  exquisite  English  style  on  the  writings  of  the  most  ac- 
complished classical  scholar  England  had  then  produced; 
and  so  Franklin  was  educated,  at  second  hand,  by  the 
University  of  Oxford,  where  Addison  studied.  And 
when,  late  in  life,  he  drew  up  a plan  for  a college  in  his 
adopted  State,  instruction  in  the  classics  was  among  the 
earliest  objects  he  provided  for ; and  when  he  desired  to 
signalize  his  respect  for  the  University  in  his  native  State, 
he  presented  to  the  library  of  Old  Harvard  a beautiful 
copy  of  the  Baskerville  Virgil.  Mr.  Clay  was  a self-edu- 
cated man.  Who  taught  him  eloquence,  and  what  authors 
furnished  the  materials  of  that  marvellous  and  resistless 
speech,  I know  not ; but  who  were  the  associates  and  rivals 
of  his  brilliant  years  I do  know.  Men  they  were  whose 
minds  had  been  trained  by  early  discipline,  and  stored  by 


16 


maturer  studies  with  the  richest  learning  of  the  University  • 
men  who  had  grown  and  ripened  in  the  genial  air  of  clas- 
sical studies;  — Calhoun,  the  great  Senator,  the  cast-iron 
man,  the  masterly  logician ; — Adams,  who  knew  all  hu- 
man lore  in  college,  court,  or  legislative  hall;  — both  cone 
with  none  to  succeed  them; -and  surviving  all,  and 
greater  than  all,  the  statesman,  diplomatist,  scholar,  orator, 
- the  only  Demosthenes  the  modern  world  has  seen,  - in 
whose  hands,  thank  God,  are  yet  held  the  issues  of  peace 
and  war  to  the  country.  Shakspeare  was  a self-educated 
man  , ut  he  studied  first  in  the  grammar  school  of  Strat- 
ord-on-Avon,  and  then,  a pupil  in  the  great  school  of  Lon- 
don life,  he  was  made  free  of  the  society  of  famous  wits, 
and  became  the  bosom  friend  of  Ben  Jonson,  the  most 
earned  scholar  oi  that  learned  age.  And  Shakspeare 
too  was  educated,  at  second  hand,  by  the  University  of 
Cambridge.  Without  high  schools  and  colleges,  without 
the  learning  and  science  and  books  which  these  institu- 
tions presuppose,  your  self-educated  men  would  have  re- 
mained your  uneducated  men.  Your  Clay,  your  Franklin, 
your  Shakspeare,  would  have  been  leaders  among  barbar- 

°US  h°rdeS’ ~ more  active  in  war>  more  ready  in  council, 
than  their  fellows,  _ splendid  barbarians,  painting  their 
persons  in  brighter  colors,  drawing  a longer  bow,  but  bar- 
banans  still. 

The  most  practical  scheme  of  public  education  is  that 
which  embraces  every  possible  species  of  culture ; the  most 
practical  education  for  the  individual  _ for  the  working 
man  or  the  playing  man  - is  the  highest  and  best  educa- 
tionhe  can  get.  We  cannot  all  do  all  things;  but  the 
social  body,  m its  collective  capacity,  may  include  all  cul- 
tures.  In  this  country,  I think  our  higher  development  is 
hindered  by  wrong  views  into  which  we  are  seduced  by 
the  duplicity  of  language.  It  is  our  good  fortune  that  we 
speak  the  English  tongue,  and  are  born  to  the  heritage  of 
nglish  literature.  It  is  the  best  expression  of  the  civiliza- 
tion of  the  modern  world.  It  is  rich,  not  only  in  words 
for  the  primal  thoughts  and  the  feelings  of  the  heart,  but 


17 


it  is  the  fit  organ  of  the  grandest  poetry  and  the  most  im- 
pressive eloquence.  It  is  the  majestic  body  of  Taylor’s 
golden  thought ; it  is  the  music  that  enshrines  the  soul  of 
Shakspeare,  the  greatest  poet  save  one  that  ever  lived, 
and  his  equal ; it  is  the  mother  tongue  of  Chatham,  the 
native  language  of  constitutional  and  regulated  liberty. 
Let  us,  then,  watch  over  it  with  ceaseless  care,  and  guard 
its  purity  as  a sacred  trust.  But  we  cannot  forget,  that  in 
its  forming  period  it  was  moulded  by  the  ideas  of  the  Old 
World  in  the  midst  of  which  it  grew  up.  Turns  of  phrase 
still  linger  upon  our  lips  embodying  conceptions  of  former 
times  and  another  land,  and  applied  by  us  to  a state  of 
things  with  wholly  changed  relations.  We  hear  words 
spoken,  that  are  significant  of  a people  separated  into  sub- 
ordinated classes  of  superiors  and  inferiors,  upper,  middle, 
and  lower.  We  have,  indeed,  our  rich  and  poor ; our  ig- 
norant and  learned;  our  distinguished  and  obscure;  our 
capitalist  and  workman  ; our  employer  and  employed. 
But  none  of  these  hold  their  places  by  any  permanent  ten- 
ure; no  distinctions  stand  that  are  not  personal.  The 
varied  interests  implied  by  the  terms  are  in  a very  different 
relation  from  that  in  which  they  are  established  in  the  Old 
World  ; and  they  blend  together  and  play  into  each  other 
by  a system  of  rapid  interchanges,  giving  a vivacity  to  or- 
dinary life  elsewhere  unknown.  The  rich  and  the  poor,  in 
a single  generation,  change  places ; the  ignorant  boor  strug- 
gles into  the  learned  man ; the  nameless  artisan  rises  to 
fame  and  power ; the  rustic  finds  his  way  to  the  city,  and 
in  prosperous  business  and  polished  manners  overpeers 
the  “ petty  traffickers  ” and  the  urbanely  bred. 

Now,  European  terms,  descriptive  of  upper,  middle,  and 
lower  classes,  have  no  just  application  here  ; and  European 
ideas  of  practical  education  are  wholly  out  of  place  here. 
The  mistake  in  using  these  terms,  and  adopting  these 
ideas,  is  radical  and  profound.  The  politician,  who  talks 
to  the  people  as  if  he  were  their  peculiar  friend,  insults 
them  by  the  proffer  of  the  very  friendship  he  hopes  to  win 
their  favor  by,  for  in  so  doing  he  tacitly  assumes  to  belong 


18 


to  a caste  above  the  people  he  addresses.  He  who,  in 
an  affected  over-zeal  for  popular  rights,  strives  to  raise  a 
prejudice  in  the  minds  of  the  people  against  the  higher 
culture  of  the  academies  and  universities,  and  discounte- 
nances their  support ; he  who  would  persuade  the  people 
that  they  have  no  concern  or  interest  in  literary  and  scien- 
tific institutions  beyond  the  common  school ; that  acade- 
mies, high  schools,  and  colleges  are  nothing  to  them,  or 
deserve  their  dislike  rather  than  their  approbation,  since 
they  belong  to  the  rich  alone,  — that  man  is  a traitor  to 
those  principles  of  fraternity  and  republican  equality 
which  lie  at  the  foundation  of  our  country’s  liberties.  He 
who  denies  the  working-men,  or  persuades  them  to  deny 
themselves  and  their  children,  the  benefits  of  a liberal  edu- 
cation, cherishes  in  his  heart  a system  in  more  deadly  an- 
tagonism to  the  rights  of  the  people,  than  the  most  absolute 
despotism  in  Europe  or  farthest  Asia  ; for  it  presupposes, 
not  a community  of  equal  men,  but  a hierarchy  of  fixed 
and  unchangeable  ranks  ; it  assumes  that  the  poor  man’s 
son  inherits  his  poverty  together  with  his  name ; the  son 
of  the  mechanic  must  follow  in  his  father’s  footsteps,  send- 
ing down  a legacy  of  toil  from  age  to  age ; and  it  makes 
another  more  odious  assumption  still,  — that  the  common 
occupations  of  the  majority  of  men  are  and  must  be  low 
and  vulgar, — that  those  who  are  engaged  in  them  are  and 
must  be  illiterate  and  coarse  in  manners,  — are  and  must 
be  incapable  of  appreciating  the  great  truths  of  science, 
and  insensible  to  the  rare  delights  of  art  and  scholarship. 
Can  any  thing  be  less  true  to  American  doctrine  than  this  ? 
With  what  a scornful  disregard  of  wealth,  and  the  position 
of  the  moment,  Almighty  God  scatters  the  priceless  gifts 
of  genius  among  his  children  ? The  great  poet,  the  illus- 
trious statesman,  the  eloquent  orator,  is  as  likely  to  go 
forth  from  the  brown-faced  laborer’s  cottage  over  the  way, 
as  from  the  sumptuous  palaces  of  the  capital.  The  future 
luler  of  an  empire  may  be  unconsciously  digging  in  yon- 
der field ; and  this  very  school  may  be,  under  God,  the 
appointed  means  of  revealing  his  unsuspected  destiny  to 
him  and  to  the  world. 


19 


But  while  I look  with  pride  and  joy  upon  the  opportu- 
nities our  schools  and  colleges  give  to  bring  to  light  the 
capacities  scattered  broadcast  over  the  land,  and  while  I 
hold  it  to  be  the  glory  and  the  special  duty  of  our  country 
to  open  by  means  of  such  institutions  the  career  of  public 
service  and  political  distinction  to  every  son  of  toil  who 
has  the  genius  to  tread  the  dizzy  heights  of  fame,  I assert 
that  a still  more  fitting  scope  of  a republican  education  is 
to  carry  the  light  of  liberal  studies  into  the  business  pur- 
suits of  life.  In  my  opinion,  it  is  an  entire  mistake  to  limit 
the  use  of  literature  to  the  learned  professions,  necessary  as 
it  is  to  them.  I would  gladly  see  every  year  bands  of  well- 
educated  young  men  go  forth  from  our  classical  schools  and 
colleges  to  the  mechanic’s  shop,  the  farm,  the  exchange, 
“ where  merchants  most  do  congregate.”  “ Verse  sweetens 
toil,”  sings  a very  sweet  poet ; knowledge  transfigures  labor , 
may  be  a trite,  but  is  a very  true  remark  in  humble  prose, 
and  intellectual  culture  carries  ideal  beauty  into  the  dusty 
ways  of  the  world.  My  faith  in  humanity  does  not  permit 
me  to  believe  in  the  everlasting  necessity  of  soulless  toil, 
whether  under  the  name  of  slavery  or  of  menial  service. 
On  the  contrary,  amidst  the  sufferings  of  the  present,  I think 
1 discern  the  gradual  coming  of  the  time,  not  when  a gold- 
en age  of  leisure  will  be  enjoyed  by  the  human  race,  but 
when  the  human  race  shall  toil  under  the  light  of  cultivated 
intellect,  each  in  his  appropriate  sphere,  whether  of  head  or 
hand,  and,  while  the  noblest  work  shall  receive  the  highest 
honor,  the  lowest  task  shall  not  be  unaccompanied  by  its  sat- 
isfactions of  heart  and  mind ; and  when,  by  the  right  adjust- 
ment of  faculty  to  occupation,  the  intellectual,  moral,  and 
physical  results  of  human  achievement  shall  be  multiplied  to 
infinity.  In  a sound  and  healthy  state  there  can  be  no  dead 
level ; no  uniformity  of  position,  profits,  honors,  or  dignities. 
il  One  star  differeth  from  another  star  in  glory.”  But  there 
may  be,  in  the  infinite  variety  of  the  human  mind  and  the 
circumstances  that  surround  it  here,  a blessed  harmony  be- 
tween the  inward  and  the  outward,  which  shall  constitute 
the  efficiency  and  happiness  of  each,  and  the  highest  pros- 


20 


perity  of  all.  To  this  result,  a wise  system  of  universal 
education,  conscientiously  administered,  steadily  tends. 

Ihe  delights  of  science,  transcending  all  the  joys  of 
sense,  and  the  refinements  of  art  and  poetry,  clothe  the 
common  life  of  labor  with  beauty  and  dignity.  With 
what  new  meaning  does  the  loveliness  of  nature  shine  in 
upon  the  soul  of  him  whose  intellectual  eye  has  been  cleared 
by  the  study  of  the  great  masters  of  thought,  the  leaders 
and  the  teachers  of  the  world ! Mr.  Macready,  in  a beauti- 
ful lecture  recently  delivered  before  the  Bristol  Athenamm, 
eloquently  says : “ We  shall  not  be  unprofitably  employed 
in  qualifying  ourselves  for  participation  in  the  intellectual 
entertainment  which  poetry  provides,  — in  striving  to  edu- 
cate^ our  minds  to  respond  to,  and  sympathize  with,  the 
poet’s  thoughts,  — among  Nature’s  grandeurs  or  her  scenes 
of  loveliness,  to  feel  as  the  poet  feels,  — and,  reading  in  his 
page  the  transcript  of  those  thoughts  and  feelings  which  so 
pleasingly  affect  us,  to  recognize  and  rejoice  in  a kindred 
emotion.  For  it  must  be  with  emotions  kindred  to  his  own, 
that  the  hearer  gives  his  attention  to  the  poet’s  song.  In 
listening  to  his  fervent  strains,  the  glow  of  admiration,  the 
throb  of  transport,  should  testify  to  the  power  of  his  master 
mind,  as  his  skill  discovers  to  us  capacities  of  delight  within 
ourselves,  of  which,  until  excited  by  the  magic  of  his  verse, 
we  had  been  unconscious.” 

After  all,  what  is  the  end  and  aim  of  the  toils  and  strug- 
gles of  this  working-day  world  ? Is  it  the  piling  up  of  gold  ? 
What  is  gold  good  for  aside  from  its  relations  to  the  mind  ? 
How  small  a part  of  what  we  gain  goes  to  the  use  or  pleas- 
ure of  the  body.  A little  daily  food,  which  a shilling  or  two 
pays  for;  a change  of  raiment,  which  a few  dollars  buy ; a 
house  over  our  head,  which  a few  thousands  build ; — this 
is  absolutely  all  our  physical  wants  require.  But  our  in- 
tellectual wants,  who  shall  measure  them  ? Education  is 
not  the  learning  of  a few  beggarly  elements ; it  is  not  a 
preparation  merely  for  the  business  of  this  short  life,  wherein 
we  play  a brief  part,  and  then  are  hustled  off  the  stage. 

“ What  a piece  of  work  is  a man !”  exclaims  Hamlet,  in 


21 


words  of  transcendent  beauty,  in  one  of  those  matchless 
strains  that  burst  from  his  soul,  though  “ like  sweet  bells 
jangled,  out  of  tune,  and  harsh,”  — u What  a piece  of  work 
is  a man!  How  noble  in  reason!  how  infinite  in  facul- 
ties ! in  form  and  moving,  how  express  and  admirable ! in 
action  how  like  an  angel!  in  apprehension,  how  like  a 
god ! ” and  his  dwelling  is  u this  goodly  frame,  the  earth,” 
beneath  “ this  most  excellent  canopy,  the  air,  this  brave 
overhanging  firmament,  this  majestical  roof  fretted  with 
golden  fire.” 

Let  us  remember  that  such  a being,  this  “ beauty  of  the 
world,”  this  “ paragon  of  animals,”  we  assume  to  shape  and 
mould,  when  we  undertake  tp  educate  a human  soul.  It 
is  not  a farmer,  a mechanic,  or  a trafficker;  it  is  not  a 
lawyer,  or  a preacher ; but  a man,  with  endless  hopes  and 
immortal  destinies.  Let  us  approach  the  work  with  rever- 
ence, looking  up  to  God  for  his  guidance  and  his  blessing. 
The  end  we  aim  at  is  an  ideal  one,  like  the  horizon  flying 
before  us ; but  though  it  lies  beyond  our  reach,  we  shall 
reach  the  farther  for  having  striven  to  attain  it. 


. 

- 


APPENDIX. 


APPENDIX  A. 


The  Festival  of  Bristol  Academy  on  the  completion  of  its  new 
building  was  held  on  Wednesday,  August  25,  1852.  At  nine,  A.  M., 
the  building  was  opened  for  public  inspection.  Seats  to  the  num- 
ber of  four  hundred  and  fifty  had  been  provided  in  the  upper  hall, 
which  were  mostly  filled  at  half  past  ten,  when  the  exercises  of 
dedication  commenced.  An  Introductory  Address  was  then  made 
by  the  Rev.  Erastus  Maltby,  President  of  the  Trustees. 

“ What  has  convened  this  large  and  intelligent  assembly  in  this 
quiet  place,  to-day  ? What  has  brought  together  hoary  age,  reso- 
lute and  vigorous  manhood,  and  bright  and  buoyant  youth  and 
childhood  ? This  is  no  Fourth  of  July,  with  its  patriotism  and  pa- 
rades; no  Agricultural  Fair,  with  its  annual  products  of  industry  and 
skill ; no  political  ratification  meeting,  to  create  party  excitement 
out  of  listless  apathy.  No,  it  is  the  calm,  quiet,  and  spontaneous 
assembling  of  friends  of  education  at  a literary  festival,  more 
rational  in  its  nature  and  not  less  important  in  its  influence. 

“ As  friends  of  education  and  of  Bristol  Academy,  we  may  well 
consider  this  an  occasion  for  mutual  congratulation.  This  beautiful 
and  commodious  edifice,  erected  mainly  through  the  liberality  of 
our  citizens,  with  architectural  taste  and  proportions,  and  mechan- 
ical skill  and  fidelity,  is  now  to  be  set  apart  to  the  purposes  of  edu- 
cation, than  which,  next  to  religion,  nothing  can  be  conceived  more 
important.  This  day  is  pleasant  and  joyous  in  the  consummation 
of  long-cherished  desires  for  a house  sufficiently  commodious  and 
attracting,  to  be  worthy  of  the  name  it  bears  ; it  is  also  bright  in 
hope  and  auspicious  in  promise. 

“ We  greet  with  cordial  welcome  the  numerous  friends  of  edu- 
cation in  this  new  and  spacious  hall.  We  are  glad  to  see  so  many 
of  the  retired  Trustees,  and  to  furnish  them  this  substantial  testi- 
mony, that  the  cause  for  which  they  labored  still  receives  careful 
attention.  We  meet  with  pleasure  many  former  Preceptors  and 


26 


Teachers,  whose  first  efforts  at  usefulness  were  here  to  direct 
young  minds  in  their  first  attention  to  the  4 article,  noun,  pronoun,’ 
the  /tic,  hcec , hoc  and  the  6,  j?,  to  of  learning.  Though  widely 
separated,  and  though  some  of  their  honored  number  have  been 
absent  a third  of  a century,  it  is  pleasant  to  know  that  education  has 
still  attractions  more  potent  to  draw  them  here,  than  the  beauty  and 
progress  of  our  town  and  the  enterprise  and  thrift  of  its  inhabitants. 
One,  alas  ! the  first  Preceptor,  who  hoped  to  be  with  us  to-day,  has 
closed  his  earthly  course.  His  sun  lately  set  in  calmness,  just  be- 
fore the  dawn  of  this  pleasant  and  auspicious  day. 

“ We  greet  the  former  pupils  of  this  institution,  who  come  with 
smiles  and  blessings  from  the  learned  professions,  and  from  stations 
of  honor,  trust,  and  usefulness  in  civil,  literary,  and  commercial 
life.  To  the  patrons  of  learning  here,  we  hope  this  day  to  present 
inducements,  in  addition  to  an  accomplished  board  of  teachers,  for 
continued  and  increased  favor.  For  beauty  of  location,  splendor 
and  convenience  of  accommodations,  accessibleness,  and  facili- 
ties for  improvement  in  learning,  to  both  sexes,  this  Academy  may 
well  challenge  a comparison  with  any  others  of  a similar  kind. 

“ It  is  not  my  province  nor  design  in  this  brief  introduction  to 
discuss  the  cause  for  which  we  are  now  assembled,  nor  to  anticipate 
any  addresses  with  which  we  may  be  favored  to-day,  nor  will  1 by 
my  remarks  detain  you  longer  from  the  intellectual  repast  provided 
for  your  entertainment.” 

The  following  Hymn  was  then  sung  by  a select  choir,  under  the 
direction  of  William  B.  Crandell,  Esq. 

“ O Thou,  at  whose  dread  name  we  bend, 

To  whom  our  purest  vows  we  pay ! 

God  over  all,  in  love  descend, 

And  bless  the  labors  of  this  day. 

“ Our  fathers  here,  a pilgrim  band, 

Fixed  the  proud  empire  of  the  free ; 

Art  moved  in  gladness  o’er  the  land, 

And  Faith  her  altars  reared  to  thee. 

44  Here,  too,  to  guard  through  every  age 
The  sacred  rights  their  valor  won, 

They  bade  Instruction  spread  her  page, 

And  send  down  truth  from  sire  to  son. 

44  Here,  still,  through  all  succeeding  time, 

Their  stores  may  truth  and  learning  bring, 

And  still  the  anthem-note  sublime 
To  thee  from  children’s  children  sing.” 

The  Rev.  Mr.  Maltby  then  offered  an  appropriate  prayer.  The 


27 


Rev.  Charles  H.  Brigham,  Secretary  of  the  Trustees,  then  read  a 
short  Historical  Sketch  of  the  Academy. 

“ On  the  30th  day  of  June,  1792,  the  Legislature  of  Massachusetts, 
in  General  Court  assembled,  passed  an  act  in  six  articles,  the  pre- 
amble and  first  two  articles  of  which  are  as  follows  : — 

“‘  Whereas,  it  appears  by  the  petition  of  the  Hon.  David  Cobb 
and  others,  his  associates,  that  they  have  subscribed  a sum  of  money 
for  the  purpose  of  creating  and  supporting  an  Academy  in  the  town 
of  Taunton,  in  the  county  of  Bristol,  to  effect  which  generous  de- 
sign more  fully,  it  is  necessary  to  establish  and  endow  a body 
politic. 

“‘Sec.  1.  Be  it  therefore  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House 
of  Representatives  in  General  Court  assembled,  and  by  the  au- 
thority of  the  same,  That  there  be  and  hereby  is  established  in  the 
town  of  Taunton,  in  the  county  of  Bristol,  an  Academy  by  the 
name  of  “ The  Bristol  Academy,”  for  the  purpose  of  promoting 
piety,  morality,  and  patriotism,  and  for  the  education  of  youth  in 
such  languages  and  such  of  the  liberal  arts  and  sciences  as  the 
Trustees  shall  direct;  — and  that  Hon.  Walter  Spooner,  William 
Baylies,  David  Cobb,  and  Elisha  May,  Esqrs.,  James  Williams, 
Apollos  Leonard,  Seth  Padelford,  Samuel  Pales,  and  Samuel  Leon- 
ard, Esqrs.,  Messrs.  Simeon  Tisdale,  James  Tisdale,  Josiah  Tis- 
dale, and  Jonathan  Cobb,  be  and  hereby  are  nominated  and  appoint- 
ed Trustees  of  said  Academy,  and  they  are  hereby  incorporated 
into  a body  politic  by  the  same  name  for  ever. 

“‘Sec.  2.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  the  said  Academy 
be  endowed  with  a township  containing  six  miles  square  of  the 
unappropriated  lands  in  the  counties  of  Lincoln  and  Hancock  ; to 
be  laid  out  by  the  Committee  for  the  Sale  of  Eastern  Lands,  and  to 
be  located  in  such  place  as  will  best  subserve  the  interest  of  the 
Commonwealth,  and  that  all  the  lands  or  moneys  heretofore  given 
or  subscribed,  or  which  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  shall  be  hereafter 
given,  granted,  and  assigned  unto  the  said  Trustees,  shall  be  con- 
firmed to  the  said  Trustees  and  their  successors  in  that  trust  for 
ever,  for  the  uses  which  in  such  instrument  shall  be  expressed,  and 
they,  the  said  Trustees,  shall  be  further  capable  of  having,  holding, 
and  taking  in  fee  simple,  by  gift,  grant,  devise,  or  otherwise,  any 
lands,  tenements,  or  other  estate,  real  and  personal  (provided  the 
annual  income  of  the  same  shall  not  exceed  six  hundred  pounds) ; 
and  shall  apply  the  rents,  issues,  and  profits  thereof  in  such  a man- 
ner as  that  the  design  of  the  institution  of  the  Academy  may  be  most 
effectually  promoted.’ 

“ The  other  four  sections  define  the  number,  duties,  and  powers 
of  the  Trustees. 

“ Such  is  the  charter  under  which  Bristol  Academy  was  estab- 
lished, and  under  which  it  exists  to-day.  Sixty  years  have  passed 
since  this  act  was  engrossed  upon  the  records  of  the  State.  It  is 
proper  to  inquire  now,  by  a short  historic  survey,  how  far  the  hopes 
and  intentions  of  those  who  passed  this  act  have  been  fulfilled. 


28 


“Four  years  were  spent  in  the  preliminary  arrangements  before 
the  new  school  was  opened  for  its  appropriate  purpose.  The  need- 
ful subscriptions  came  in  slowly.  Many  were  sceptical  concerning 
the  worth,  more  concerning  the  success,  of  such  a seminary.  The 
Trustees  were  not  idle,  as  the  records  of  twenty  meetings  held  in 
this  interval  fully  prove.  Their  various  committees  were  active 
and  faithful.  The  sum  of  $ 10,000  was  realized  by  the  sale  of  their 
Eastern  lands,  and  more  than  $ 1,000  were  added  of  private  gifts. 
The  town  was  solicited  to  bear  its  part,  and  a wide  appeal  was  made 
to  the  public  spirit  of  the  county.  The  full  number  of  Trustees 
allowed  by  the  charter  was  completed,  and  Hon.  George  Leonard 
of  Norton,  Rev.  Perez  Fobes,  LL.  D.  of  Raynham,  and  John  Bowers, 
Esq.  of  Somerset,  were  added  to  those  already  named.  The  early 
loss  of  General  David  Cobb  from  the  Board,  by  removal  from  the 
State,  was  greatly  regretted,  and  the  thanks  of  the  Trustees  were 
unanimously  voted  to  him  ‘ for  his  great  and  friendly  exertions  in 
favor  of  the  Academy,’  and  it  was  also  voted,  that  he  was  4 entitled 
to  the  honor  and  appellation  of  being  the  Patron  and  Founder  of  the 
same.’  Negotiations  were  made  for  a suitable  spot  of  ground,  and 
finally  a lot  was  selected  on  the  land  of  Mrs.  Crocker,  adjoining  the 
meeting-house.  Some  months  elapsed  after  the  purchase  before  all 
difficulties  were  settled,  and  the  way  was  clear  to  erect  a building 
and  engage  a teacher.  On  the  6th  of  April,  1796,  Mr.  Simeon 
Doggett  was  chosen  Preceptor,  and  on  the  4th  of  July  Miss  Sally 
Cady  was  appointed  to  be  the  head  of  the  Female  Department. 

“On  the  18th  day  of  July,  1796,  the  Academy  was  dedicated  by 
public  exercises  to  its  appropriate  uses,  in  the  presence  of  the 
Trustees,  and  a large  concourse  of  citizens  of  the  town  and  vicinity. 
An  Ode  on  Science,  written  and  composed  by  Deacon  Jaazaniah 
Sumner,  was  sung  by  a select  choir,  and  a discourse  delivered  by 
Mr.  Doggett,  the  Preceptor.  The  theme  of  this  discourse  was, 

4 Education,  its  Objects  and  its  Importance.’  It  was  an  able  and  re- 
markable production,  affluent  in  rhetoric,  clear  in  statement,  gentle 
in  its  criticism  of  defects,  earnest  in  its  prophecy  of  remedy,  — far 
in  advance  of  the  sentiment  of  the  time.  It  delighted  and  edified 
all  who  heard  it,  and  the  printed  copies  were  soon  widely  circulat- 
ed, and  did  for  education  in  the  Old  Colony  a timely  work.  Mr. 
Doggett  came  to  his  new  post  of  duty  with  rare  qualifications. 
He  brought  with  him  the  experience  of  a teacher  as  well  in  the 
district  school  as  to  the  college  class.  He  was  in  the  vigor  of  early 
manhood,  skilled  in  the  ancient  tongues,  respected  by  all  as  a man 
of  singular  integrity  and  purity,  liberal  in  his  views  of  human  cul- 
ture, able  to  work  and  willing  to  wait,  practised  in  self-restraint, 
with  a just  balance  of  gentleness  and  firmness  in  his  temper,  — at 
once  a judicious  and  a consistent  man.  He  came  with  the  warmest 
wishes  of  his  associate  teachers  in  Brown  University.  And  the 
reputation  which  he  brought  was  confirmed  at  the  beginning  by  the 
dignity  and  earnestness  with  which  he  gave  himself  to  his  task. 

44  Mr.  Doggett  remained  at  the  head  of  the  institution  until  April, 


29 


1813  ; a period  of  nearly  seventeen  years.  His  labors  during  this 
whole  period  were  arduous  and  unremitting.  The  number  of  pupils 
was  usually  large,  rarely  falling  below  fifty,  and  sometimes  rising  to 
nearly  three  times  that  number.  He  had,  it  is  true,  competent  as- 
sistants, both  male  and  female,  but  the  responsibility  and  burden 
were  chiefly  on  him.  But  he  found  time  to  fulfil  all  his  duties  in 
the  Academy,  without  relinquishing  wholly  the  cares  of  that  sacred 
profession  which  he  early  adopted.  The  Board  of  Trustees  were 
diligent  to  watch  and  constant  to  aid  him  in  his  management  of  the 
school.  Their  quarterly  meetings  were  punctually  attended,  and 
they  were  faithful  witnesses  to  the  proficiency  of  the  pupils.  Their 
oversight  of  so  large  a fund,  varying  from  $ 8,000  to  $ 11,000,  was 
not  free  from  embarrassment.  There  were  no  dividend-paying 
stocks  in  which  it  might  be  securely  invested,  and  it  was  mostly  held 
by  members  in  the  form  of  loans.  The  Trustees  were  fortunate 
in  their  Treasurer,  Hon.  Seth  Padelford,  who,  from  the  first  organi- 
zation of  the  Board  to  his  sudden  death,  in  January,  1810,  discharged 
with  great  care,  shrewdness,  and  patience  the  difficult  office  of 
Treasurer.  The  losses,  which  in  rapid  succession  deprived  the  Board 
of  its  most  efficient  members,  were  made  up  by  the  choice  of  younger 
men.  At  the  time  of  Mr.  Doggett’s  resignation,  only  three  of  the 
original  Trustees  were  remaining  in  office.  The  hearty  compliment 
was  paid  to  him  on  his  retirement,  of  a choice  to  a vacant  seat  in 
the  Board. 

“ The  epoch  of  Mr.  Doggett’s  Preceptorship  was  rather  one  of 
experiment  than  of  settled  system,  either  in  instruction  or  discipline. 
There  were  frequent  changes  in  the  rules,  and  no  fixed  code  of  by- 
laws was  fairly  agreed  upon.  Some  strange  uses  of  the  Academy 
building  were  allowed,  and  some  curious  statutes  were  passed.*  The 
annual  dinner,  which  at  first  each  Trustee  was  required  himself  to 
pay  for,  became  soon  a quarterly  dinner,  at  the  expense  of  the  fund. 
The  price  of  tuition  fluctuated,  and  a vain  distinction  was  attempted 
between  the  cost  of  teaching  to  boys  and  to  girls.  Fifty  cents  ad- 
ditional tuition  was  prescribed  as  the  penalty  for  absence  at  exami- 
nations. The  purchase  of  globes  was  repeatedly  waved,  and  it  was 
quite  difficult  to  get  the  bell  in  proper  tune.  A form  of  diplomas  was 
ordered  and  voted,  but  there  is  no  record  that  any  were  ever  given. 
.A  path  from  the  Academy  door  to  the  Neck  of  Land  Road  was  mat- 
ter of  much  concern  and  frequent  discussion.  But  if  small  things 
were  overmuch  heeded,  and  the  legislation  of  the  Board  was  some- 
what fitful  and  uncertain,  the  weightier  matters  were  not  neglected. 
The  teachers  kept  up  to  the  standard  of  the  day  ; and  applicants 
from  this  Academy  were  honorably  received  and  took  good  rank  in 
our  chief  New  England  colleges.  Many  who  have  held  in  this  and 
other  States  high  civil  and  judicial  office,  or  have  adorned  the  sev- 


* Dancing  was  a regular  branch  of  instruction.  Wednesday  and  Saturday 
forenoon,  and  Saturday  afternoon,  were  appropriated  to  it.  There  were  reg- 
ular times  appointed  for  balls  in  the  hall. 


eral  professions,  have  referred  to  the  influence  and  labors  of  Master 
Doggett  the  foundation  of  their  success  in  life.  If  we  subtract  half 
from  the  records  and  traditions  of  the  Academy  under  its  first  di- 
rection, enough  will  be  left  to  show  its  educational  efficiency  in  this 
region. 

‘‘The  successor  to  Mr.  Doggett  in  the  Preceptorship  was  Mr. 
Luther  Bailey,  a graduate  of  Brown  University  of  the  class  of  1808. 
Mr.  Bailey  remained  in  office  until  the  autumn  of  1816,  about 
three  and  a half  years,  and  left  at  that  time  only  to  enter  upon  the 
duties  of  the  settled  ministry.  That  his  efforts  and  services  were 
highly  esteemed,  the  frequent  testimonials  on  the  records  show. 
While  he  remained,  he  was  a respected  citizen  and  a popular 
teacher.*  In  the  last  terms  of  his  stay,  he  had  an  efficient  helper 
in  Mr.  Otis  Peirce,  whose  skill  as  a teacher  of  penmanship  recalled 
attention  to  that  neglected  branch.  So  acceptable  were  the  ser- 
vices of  Mr.  Peirce,  that  he  was  at  once  appointed  to  the  vacant 
post  on  Mr.  Bailey’s  departure  ; and,  with  the  aid  of  a brother,  was 
able  to  discharge  the  full  duties  of  his  place  for  several  months, 
until  a teacher  of  classical  training  could  be  found.  In  the  person 
of  Mr.  John  Brewer,  a graduate  of  Harvard  College  of  1804,  and  a 
gentleman  of  superior  ability  and  attainments,  an  entirely  fit  Pre- 
ceptor seemed  to  be  secured.  But  in  less  than  a year  he  was 
called  away  to  a more  lucrative  office  in  a Southern  city.  Mr. 
John  H.  Wilkins,  a graduate  of  that  year  (1818)  at  Harvard,  was 
then  engaged,  and  high  hopes  were  cherished  of  his  future  influ- 
ence, from  his  affable  manners,  his  varied  scholarship,  and  his 
tact  in  the  school-room.  But  the  temptation  of  professional  study 
was  too  attractive,  and  he  remained  but  a year  at  the  head  of  the 
school.  Mr.  Peirce  was  then  reappointed,  and  retained  his  place 
till  the  summer  of  18*21.t 

“ An  especial  mention  of  that  venerable  man  whose  long  activity 
and  unwearied  interest  in  the  Academy  ceased  at  this  period,  is 
proper  here.  From  the  beginning  of  his  residence  in  Taunton  to 
the  day  of  his  death,  Rev.  John  Pipon  never  ceased  to  watch  the 
concerns  of  this  institution  as  a faithful  guardian.  No  examination 
passed  without  his  presence,  his  sagacious  counsels,  his  approv- 
ing smile,  his  kind  encouragement.  The  teachers  were  sure  of 
his  sympathy.  The  scholars  were  glad  in  the  benediction  of  hfis 
voice.  His  genial  humor  transformed  the  business  meeting  to  a 
festal  gathering.  It  was  his  part,  not  only  to  preserve,  as  the  sec- 
retary, a faithful  record,  but  to  speak  in  behalf  of  the  Board  the 

* It  is  said  that  Mr.  Isaac  Bowen  was  Preceptor  for  some  six  months  after 
the  departure  of  Mr.  Bailey.  But  no  record  of  his  appointment  is  found  on 
the  books  of  the  Academy. 

t The  Female  Department  of  the  Academy  was  filled  in  its  earlier  days  by 
many  ladies  of  high  accomplishments  and  elegant  manners.  Misses  Cady, 
Godfrey,  Burges,  Warner,  Smith,  Brewer,  and  Dean  are  all  well  remembered. 
An  occasion  hardly  less  memorable  than  the  first  dedication  was  the  solemn 
funeral  service  at  the  burial  of  Miss  Prudence  Williams,  whose  kindly  spirit 
and  whose  patient  labor  were  proved  for  so  many  years  in  the  Academy. 


31 


words  of  admonition  or  of  sorrow,  as  the  occasion  might  require. 
From  his  lips  the  reprimand  fell  gently.  His  mild  temper  could 
not  criticize  harshly.  And  the  sympathy  of  his  quaint  and  touch- 
ing phrases  would  bring  smiles  to  the  very  face  of  anguish.  His 
lament  over  each  new  bereavement  which  parted  the  companion- 
ship of  brethren  whom  he  loved  to  meet,  was  very  tender.  In  the 
removal  of  Mr.  Doggett,  he  sees  a new  proof  of  the  changeable 
nature  of  all  mortal  things.  If  he  was  not  forward  to  suggest  meas- 
ures for  the  improvement  of  the  school,  he  was  prompt  to  fulfil  the 
declared  wishes  of  its  teachers  and  guardians.  The  Academy  has 
had  no  friend  who  has  labored  for  it  with  more  single-hearted,  self- 
denying  devotion,  in  its  small  things  and  great  things  alike,  and 
who  has  done  more  to  promote  its  usefulness,  than  the  Rev.  John 
Pipon.  The  mention  of  his  name  in  this  place  must  always  call  back 
most  grateful  memories. 

“ In  this  second  period  of  its  history,  the  system  of  the  school 
had  become  more  settled,  its  laws  w7ere  arranged  into  chapters  and 
sections,  the  rate  of  compensation  to  the  Preceptor  fixed,  and  the 
hours  of  study  defined.  It  was  enacted  that  none  should  be  ad- 
mitted under  ten  years  of  age,  except  students  in  the  classics,  who 
were  preparing  for  college.  Occasionally  the  female  schools  were 
suspended  in  winter.  The  salary  of  the  Preceptor  was  limited  to 
four  hundred  dollars  from  the  fund,  with  the  fees  for  tuition,  out 
of  which  the  salaries  of  suitable  assistants  were  to  be  paid.  The 
rates  of  tuition  still  fluctuated,  and  varied  from  two  and  a half  to 
four  dollars,  according  to  the  number  of  studies  selected  by  each 
pupil.  Drawing  was  added  to  the  list  of  accomplishments  pro- 
vided for ; and  it  was  deemed  proper  to  assign  a portion  of  time 
for  instruction  in  the  use  of  the  globes,  and  to  girls  in  the  arts  of  the 
needle.  The  school  had  now  to  endure  the  rivalries  of  other  sim- 
ilar institutions  in  neighboring  towns,  and  became  somewhat  more 
local  in  its  character  than  at  first.  Of  the  original  Trustees,  but 
one,  the  Hon.  William  Baylies,  still  survived.  The  children  of  the 
first  pupils  now  sat  in  the  seats  of  their  parents,  as  pupils  or 
as  Trustees.  But  the  institution  still  continued  to  hold  its  rank 
as  the  chief  school  of  the  county,  and  sent  to  the  colleges  those 
who  could  honorably  compete  with  students  from  other  quarters. 
On  its  days  of  public  examination  numbers  still  assembled,  and 
its  guardians  were  punctual  in  quarterly  meetings  and  at  quarterly 
dinners. 

“ The  successor  of  Mr.  Peirce  in  the  office  of  Preceptor  was  Mr. 
John  Goldsbury,  a graduate  of  Brown  University  of  the  class  of 
1820.  He  remained  for  two  years  and  a half,  when  he  resigned 
to  enter  upon  the  duties  of  the  Christian  ministry.  He  was  fol- 
lowed by  Mr.  John  Lee  Watson,  a graduate  of  Harvard  of  the 
class  of  1815.  Mr.  Watson  was  a skilful  and  gifted  teacher,  and  was 
popular  with  his  pupils  during  the  four  years  that  he  remained. 
His  departure  was  greatly  regretted,  though  another  more  sacred  field 
of  labor  welcomed  him.  Mr.  Frederic  Crafts,  a graduate  of  Brown 


of  1816,  followed,  and  for  nine  years  discharged  with  great  fidel- 
ity, zeal,  and  vigor  the  duties  of  his  office.  He  left  only  to  find  a 
more  arduous  duty  in  one  of  the  city  schools.  For  a single  year 
Mr.  John  N.  Bellows,  a member  of  the  class  of  1825  at  Harvard, 
occupied  the  post.  After  him  came  Mr.  Nicholas  A.  Clarke,  a 
Harvard  graduate  of  1838.  He  held  the  office  four  years,  from 
1838  to  1842.  Rev.  John  D.  Sweet,  a Brown  graduate  of  1829, 
filled  a short  interval  of  a year  and  a half,  and  Mr.  Bellows  re- 
turned again  for  an  equal  period.  Both  these  gentlemen  left  to 
resume  the  work  of  the  ministry.  Mr.  Samuel  R.  Townsend,  of 
the  Harvard  class  of  1829,  remained  at  the  head  of  the  institution 
for  three  and  a half  years,  when  the  present  Preceptor,  Mr.  Henry 
B.  Wheelwright,  of  the  Harvard  class  of  1844,  was  appointed. 
There  have  thus  been  eight  Preceptors  within  thirty  years.  About 
the  space  of  a single  year,  the  Preceptorship  has  been  vacant. 

“ We  have  no  room,  and  it  is  hardly  proper,  to  speak  specially 
of  the  merits  of  these  teachers,  whose  services  are  so  recent,  and 
whose  faces  so  many  of  their  former  pupils  are  to-day  glad  to  wel- 
come back.  Their  efficiency  was  not  a little  promoted  by  the 
fitness  and  devotedness  of  their  female  assistants.  The  names  of 
Misses  Tillinghast,  Barry,  Hale,  White,  Cushing,  Baylies,  Pennell, 
and  Townsend  deserve  honorable  mention  in  this  sketch.  Their 
influence  is  felt  now  everywhere  in  the  characters  of  the  younger 
women  of  this  village.  Numerous  ushers  and  other  assistants  have 
also  been  employed,  whose  names,  if  they  could  all  be  obtained, 
we  would  gladly  mention.*  There  have  been  teachers  of  special 
branches,  — of  Writing,  of  French,  and  of  the  Art  of  Memory. 
The  number  of  pupils  in  these  thirty  years  has  of  course  greatly 
varied.  In  some  terms  it  has  fallen  below  twenty,  in  some  terms 
it  has  risen  above  one  hundred  and  fifty.  The  average  number, 
however,  has  probably  been  from  seventy  to  eighty  per  term.  The 
number  of  studies  has  increased,  till  all  the  branches  of  a high- 
school  education  or  a college  preparation  are  now  included  within 
the  course.  The  laws  of  the  institution  have  been  several  times 
revised  ; — once,  in  1835,  very  thoroughly.  All  the  Trustees  who 
were  in  office  at  the  death  of  Mr.  Pipon  have  resigned  or  died, 
and  the  last  appointed,  Hon.  Oliver  Ames,  Jr.  of  Easton,  is  the 
sixty-first  from  the  foundation.  Respectful  and  grateful  notice  may 
here  be  taken  of  the  Hon.  Justice  Williams,  whose  time,  prudence, 
and  wisdom  were  always  at  the  free  service  of  the  Academy  in 
the  offices  of  Secretary  and  President,  which  he  successively  held, 
— and  of  the  Hon.  Samuel  Crocker,  whose  large  private  concerns 
did  not  prevent  him  from  faithfully  administering  and  increasing 
the  funds  of  the  institution,  and  whose  term  of  office  was  prolonged 
to  forty-two  years,  three  quarters  of  the  whole  age  of  the  Academy. 


* The  names  of  those  who  have  taught  since  1837  are  Francis  B.  Dean, 
Francis  C.  Andrews,  A.  A Leach,  A.  Towle,  Claudius  B.  Farnsworth,  James 
B.  R.  Walker,  Amos  Lufkin,  C.  D.  Kingman,  and  George  A.  Sawyer. 


u But  we  omit  further  details  of  the  past  history,  to  speak  very 
briefly  of  the  present  condition  of  the  Academy.  Its  external  condi- 
tion is  highly  encouraging.  It  has  a respectable  fund,  well  invested 
and  reasonably  productive.  Its  old  building,  venerable  in  its  asso- 
ciations, but  most  uncomfortable  for  purposes  of  instruction,  is 
now  finally  forsaken,  and  is  expected  to  pass  into  other  hands,  for 
other  uses.  On  this  spacious  and  valuable  lot,  which  the  foresight 
of  the  Trustees  many  years  ago  secured,  a new  building  has  been 
erected,  which  we  exhibit  and  dedicate  to-day.  The  plans,  skil- 
fully contrived  and  drawn  by  Mr.  Richard  Upjohn,  have  been  ably 
executed  by  the  contractors,  Mr.  Levi  Hale  and  Messrs.  Walker 
and  Sherman.  When  the  building  is  fully  completed,  it  will  pos- 
sess all  the  modern  facilities  for  teaching  and  improvements  in 
arrangement.  A new  method  of  ventilation  has  been  adopted  ; 
a well  has  been  dug  upon  the  premises  ; large  furnaces  have  been 
placed  in  the  cellar ; and  ample  room  has  been  provided  for  schol- 
ars to  remain  in  the  interval  of  the  noonday.  The  larger  half  of 
the  expense  of  the  new  building  has  been  met  by  the  voluntary 
gifts  of  its  friends  and  former  pupils  of  the  Academy.  One  name 
among  many  we  may  be  permitted  to  mention,  that  of  Mr.  Samuel 
T.  Tisdale,  of  New  York  city,  whose  noble  donation  of  one  thou- 
sand dollars  is  a worthy  tribute  to  the  memory  of  his  ancestor. 

“ It  is  intended  to  appropriate  one  room  to  the  purpose  of  a li- 
brary and  cabinet,  and  it  is  believed  that  gifts  for  this  end  will  not 
long  be  wanting.*  The  Catalogue  recently  printed  shows  by  its 
long  list  of  names  that  the  interest  in  the  institution  is  not  waning, 
even  with  the  great  improvement  in  our  public  schools  ; and  by 
its  plan  of  graded  instruction,  that  the  standard  of  the  school  is 
higher  than  ever.  Under  its  present  management,  there  can  be  no 
doubt  that  the  best  hopes  of  the  Trustees  and  patrons  of  the  Acad- 
emy will  be  realized.  It  rests  with  the  citizens  of  this  town  mainly 
to  prove  that  the  services  of  this  day  are  not  disproportioned  to  the 
occasion  which  we  celebrate.  It  is  a jubilee  festival  which  we 
keep  together.  But  may  we  not  trust  that  it  shall  inaugurate  here 
a new  period  of  sound  and  useful  instruction,  the  fruits  of  which 
shall  be  more  abundant  as  the  years  pass  on  ? The  building  which 
the  fathers  reared  now  lies  hid  beneath  the  shade  of  the  trees  which 
they  planted.  Those  spreading  elms  are  the  piers  of  our  gateway 
to  this  new  structure.  May  the  remembered  labors  and  recorded 
zeal  of  the  fathers  in  behalf  of  this  ancient  school  hang  in  grateful 
shade  over  the  new  pathway  to  truth  which  here  we  mark.” 

The  Ode  on  Science,  written  and  composed  for  the  dedication  of 
the  first  building  in  1796,  by  Deacon  Jaazaniah  Sumner,  was  then 
repeated. 


* Donations  for  the  library  to  a considerable  amount  have  already  been 
made. 


5 


34 


“ The  morning  sun  shines  from  the  east, 

And  spreads  his  glories  to  the  west ; 

All  nations  with  his  beams  are  blest, 

Where’er  his  radiant  light  appears. 

So  Science  spreads  her  lucid  ray 
O’er.lands  that  long  in  darkness  lay  ; 

She  visits  fair  Columbia, 

And  sets  her  sons  among  the  stars. 

“ Fair  Freedom,  her  attendant,  waits 
To  bless  the  portals  of  her  gates, 

To  crown  the  young,  the  rising  States, 

With  laurels  of  immortal  day. 

The  British  yoke,  the  Gallic  chain, 

Were  urged  upon  our  sires  in  vain, — 

All  haughty  tyrants  we  disdain, 

And  shout,  ‘ Long  live  America ! ’ ” 

An  eloquent  and  powerful  Address  on  Education,  which  is  print- 
ed in  the  foregoing  pages,  was  then  delivered  by  Professor  C.  C. 
Felton,  of  Cambridge.  The  exercises  in  the  hall  were  closed  by 
singing  a Hymn,  written  for  the  occasion,  by  Hodges  Reed,  Esq., 
a pupil  of  the  school  more  than  forty  years  ago.  The  music  was 
composed  for  the  occasion,  by  Thomas  Ryan,  Esq.,  of  Boston. 

“ Open  thy  halls,  — thy  gates  unbar,  — 

A herald  in  thy  court  demands 
Admission  for  the  girls  and  boys, 

Who  wait  without,  in  joyful  bands. 

“ The  lyre  is  with  them,  yet  unswept, 

Whose  numbers  half  the  world  may  wake,  — 
Among  them  the  betokening  shout 

Which  shall  on  ears  of  millions  break. 

“ There  are  the  future  men  of  skill, 

To  lighten  labor,  care,  and  pain  ; 

There,  the  quick  eye  to  scan  the  heavens, 

And  the  strong  arm  to  reap  the  grain. 

“ And  there  are  angels,  wingless  yet, 

Who,  by  and  by,  the  heavens  shall  span, 

Proclaiming  loudly,  as  they  fly, 

Peace  on  the  earth , — good-will  to  man. 

“ Open  thy  halls  and  let  them  in  ; 

The  sleeping  lyre  hid  Science  string  ; 

Let  Truth  anoint  their  mighty  men , 

And  heaven-horn  Love  their  angels  wingP 


35 


At  one,  P.  M.,  a procession  was  formed  in  front  of  the  Academy, 
under  the  direction  of  Timothy  Gordon,  Esq.,  Chief  Marshal,  and 
was  escorted  by  the  Taunton  Brass  Band  through  Main  Street  to 
Templar  Hall,  where  upwards  of  two  hundred  ladies  and  gentlemen 
were  comfortably  seated.  Ex-Governor  Marcus  Morton  presided. 
A blessing  was  asked  by  the  Rev.  Alvan  Cobb,  the  senior  clergy- 
man of  the  town.  The  bountiful  collation,  which  Mr.  J.  B.  Smith 
of  Boston  had  provided,  engrossed  the  next  forty  minutes  of  time. 
At  two,  P.  M.,  the  intellectual  entertainment  was  commenced  by 
the  Chairman,  in  a few  felicitous  remarks.  He  spoke  of  his  high 
sense  of  the  honor  of  presiding  on  such  an  occasion,  — of  the  in- 
terest he  had  taken  in  the  Academy  for  many  years  as  a Trustee, 
— of  the  large  number  of  children  he  had  educated  there,  and  the 
reaction  of  good  which  their  training  had  brought  to  his  home,  — of 
the  changes  that  had  taken  place  in  the  needs  and  prospects  of  ed- 
ucation. He  mentioned  it  as  a remarkable  fact,  that  no  descendant 
in  the  male  line  of  any  of  the  fifteen  original  Trustees  is  now  a 
member  of  the  Board,  and  as  a fact  equally  singular,  that  all  the 
Preceptors  but  one  are  now  living,  and  half  of  them,  too,  present 
at  the  festival.  He  closed  his  remarks  by  announcing  the  first  reg- 
ular toast : — 

1.  “ The  Ancient  Toast,  ‘ Success  and  Prosperity  to  Bristol 
Academy.’  ” 

Music. 

2.  “ The  Town  of  Taunton.  ‘ Good  Lord,  Sirs,  what  have  we 
here  ? fish,  flesh,  and  good  red  herring.’  Our  water  may  be  weak, 
Sirs,  but  the  fountains  of  our  intelligence  are  fresh  and  deep.” 

The  Hon.  Henry  Williams  was  called  upon,  as  a lineal  descend- 
ant of  one  of  the  first  settlers  of  the  town,  to  answer  to  this  toast. 
He  spoke  of  the  erroneous,  almost  contemptuous  ideas,  that  were 
current  abroad  concerning  the  old  town  of  Taunton,  and  regretted 
that  the  town  had  done  so  little  for  literature ; that  it  had  produced 
but  one  eminent  poet,  and  but  one  person  entitled  to  the  name  of 
historian.  He  could  claim  for  the  town,  however,  that  it  had  not 
been  backward  in  aiding  the  early  struggles  of  the  country  for 
freedom,  and  in  providing  material  for  its  great  enterprises,  both 
of  war  and  peace,  — that  it  had  furnished  citizens  as  patriotic,  sol- 
diers as  brave,  and  artisans  as  skilful,  as  any  town  in  the  State. 
The  learned  professions  and  the  bench  had  found  in  its  sons  some 
of  their  brightest  ornaments.  The  present  need  he  considered  to 
be  of  higher  literary  culture,  and  more  thorough  provision  for  ed- 


36 


ucation.  And  he  gave  as  a sentiment,  in  closing,  — “A  higher 
moral  and  intellectual  culture,  the  only  antidote  to  the  social  evils 
of  our  day.” 

3.  “ Bristol  County.  Its  boast  is  not  of  fruitful  soil  or  abundant 
harvests,  but  that  its  sons,  whether  in  the  councils  of  the  land  or  on 
the  broad  paths  of  every  ocean,  bear  with  them  the  principles  and 
the  spirit  of  their  Pilgrim  ancestry.” 

The  Hon.  Thomas  D.  Eliot,  of  New  Bedford,  responded  to  this 
toast,  in  a brilliant  and  humorous  off-hand  address,  — speaking  for 
the  county  only  as  a loving,  adopted  son,  and  making  some  playful 
comparisons  between  old  school  and  new  school  doctrines.  He 
gave  as  a sentiment,  — “ The  town  of  Taunton.  Her  old  schools 
of  herrings  in  the  river,  and  her  new  schools  of  children  on  the  land. 
Her  fame  has  sprung  from  the  former,  and  rests  securely  on  the 
latter.” 

Music. 

4.  “ The  Commonwealth  of  Massachusetts.  Fortunate  in  her 
enterprises,  because  liberal  in  her  gifts.  Her  magistrates  this  day 
are  witnesses  to  the  wisdom  which  felled  the  forest  to  build  the 


Academy.” 

This  toast  was  replied  to  by  his  Excellency  Governor  Boutwell, 
who  enlarged  upon  the  theme  which  it  suggested.  He  regarded 
the  social  and  economical  standing  of  Massachusetts  as  mainly  the 
result  of  her  zeal  and  liberality  in  the  cause  of  education.  The 
diffusion  of  intelligence  among  the  people  is  the  sure  source  of  the 
best  material  prosperity.  The  worth  of  our  government  depends 
upon  the  standard  of  our  public  education. 

5.  “ Rhode  Island.  The  rivers  which  bear  our  wealth  pierce 
the  sea  through  her  possessions.  We  share  with  her  the  traditions 
of  trial  and  strife.  May  no  border  disputes  ever  set  bounds  to  our 
brotherhood  in  knowledge  and  truth.” 

In  reply  to  this,  the  following  note  from  his  Excellency  Governor 
Allen,  one  of  the  first  pupils  of  the  Academy,  was  read  by  the 
Secretary : — 


tc  Providence , August  17,  1852. 

“ Dear  Sir, — 

“ I regret  very  much  it  will  not  be  in  my  power  to  accept  your 
friendly  invitation  to  unite  with  the  Trustees  of  the  Bristol  Acade- 
my at  their  celebration  on  the  25th  of  this  month.  It  would  have 
given  me  great  pleasure  to  visit,  once  more,  a place  where  I had 
passed  many  happy  days  of  my  youth.  Yours,  respectfully, 

“ Philip  Allen,  Governor .” 


37 


And  the  following  lines,  sent  by  Rev.  Charles  T.  Brooks,  of  New- 
port, Rhode  Island : — 

44  The  Derivation  of  the  Name  of  Taunton. 

“ Taunton,  good  Lord  ! ” 

44  Taunton  ! there  is  an  omen  in  thy  name, 

Might  put  thy  ancient  enemies  to  shame  ; 

And  if  the  ghosts  of  them  who  slandered  thee 
Could  for  an  hour  revisit  earth,  to  see 
The  pride  and  promise  of  thy  present  day, 

Thy  widely  spread  industrial  array, 

Thy  mansions,  farms,  and  factories,  and  then 

Thy  schools  and  churches,  matrons,  maids,  and  men, — 

Ay,  could  they  come  to-day,  and  look  on  these, 

Thy  intellectual  festivities, 

Well  might  they  shrink  from  such  a blaze  of  light, 

To  their  old  haunts  of  ignominious  night ; 

Well  mightest  thou  their  keenest  shafts  defy. 

4 Taunt  on  ! ’ should  be  thy  proud,  exultant  cry.” 

Music. 

6.  44  Harvard  College.  In  her  day  of  small  things  she  trained 
the  founders  of  this  Academy.  In  her  day  of  larger  advantage, 
may  many  grateful  children  of  those  founders  find  in  her  still  a 
gracious  mother.” 

In  answer  to  this  toast,  Professor  Felton  spoke  of  his  delight  in 
the  arrangements  of  the  occasion,  his  interest  in  the  historical  sketch 
which  had  been  read,  and  the  honorable  witness  which  it  bore  to 
the  interest  of  the  town  and  county  in  the  cause  of  education.  The 
presence  of  ladies  was  to  him  a beautiful  feature  in  the  order  of 
the  festival.  He  testified,  from  his  own  observation,  that  the  disuse 
of  wine  at  public  dinners  had  only  made  brighter  and  more  genial 
their  flow  of  wit  and  soul,  and  gave  an  emphatic  approval  of  the 
sentiments  uttered  by  Governor  Boutwell,  in  regard  to  the  connec- 
tion of  prosperity  with  intelligence. 

7.  44  Brown  University.  Her  fame  is  our  pride.  Our  sons  are 
fated  to  bear  her  honors.  We  welcome  in  the  person  of  her  senior 
Professor  one  of  our  most  promising  children.” 

In  replying  to  this  toast,  Professor  Alexis  Caswell  related  some 
of  his  experiences  as  a pupil  of  the  Academy,  and  showed  how  he 
became  a connecting  link  between  this  and  Brown  University.  He 
paid  an  affectionate  tribute  to  the  venerable  men  who  were  his 
teachers,  and  spoke  of  the  enduring  influence  of  their  counsels  and 


38 


encouragements.  He  alluded  to  the  honorable  rank  which  the  sons 
of  this  Academy  had  taken  among  the  college  graduates.  Though 
a Professor  of  the  Natural  Sciences  and  of  Mathematics,  he  did  not 
hesitate  to  commend  classical  education,  and  the  spirit  of  Mr.  Fel- 
ton’s Address.  He  recommended  the  endowment  of  scholarships, 
the  establishment  of  a library,  and  the  encouragement  of  indigent 
scholars  to  seek  the  highest  instruction.  He  closed  his  address  by 
giving,  — “ Bristol  Academy.  May  it  never  want  liberal  patrons, 
judicious  directors,  and  able  teachers.” 

Music. 

8.  “ Suffolk  County.  A very  respectable  county  for  lawyers, 
but  indebted  to  Bristol  for  some  of  the  brightest  ornaments  of  her 
bar.” 

The  Hon.  George  S.  Hillard,  of  Boston,  a great-grandson  of  the 
Rev.  Josiah  Crocker,  one  of  the  most  honored  clergymen  of  Taun- 
ton, was  called  upon  to  reply  to  this  toast,  which  he  did  in  a most 
finished  and  elegant  address.  He  contrasted  the  methods  and  cus- 
toms of  New  England  with  those  of  the  older  nations  in  Europe, 
and  showed  how  powerless  the  mere  traditions  of  art  and  culture 
were  to  promote  happiness  and  progress;  — that  neither  the  pres- 
ence of  sublime  scenery,  as  in  Switzerland,  nor  the  inheritance  of 
a noble  history,  as  in  Italy,  the  land  where  Virgil  left  the  charm  of 
his  verse,  could  supply  the  defect  of  constant  and  progressive  in- 
tellectual training.  He  gave  as  a sentiment, — “Education, — 
a golden  chain  of  sympathy  which  links  together  the  hopes  of 
youth  and  the  experience  of  age.  May  no  rust  ever  sever  a single 
link.” 

9.  “ The  Board  of  Education.  A doubtful  scheme  at  first,  but 
made  sure  by  the  earnest  industry  of  one  Mann . Though  it  be 
past  prophecy  now,  it  is  stronger  and  more  hopeful  in  the  wisdom 
of  its  Seers." 

In  the  absence  of  Professor  Sears,  Secretary  of  the  Board  of 
Education,  who  was  expected  to  answer  to  this  toast,  the  Hon. 
John  H.  Wilkins,  of  Boston,  a former  Preceptor  of  the  Academy, 
was  called  up.  He  spoke  of  his  emotions  on  visiting  the  place  of 
his  youthful  labor,  which  he  had  not  seen  for  thirty-three  years. 
He  referred  to  the  great  improvements  and  changes  in  teaching 
that  these  years  had  brought,  and  dwelt  upon  the  excellence  of  the 
common-school  system,  by  which  the  wealth  of  the  community  was 
made  to  minister  to  its  culture.  And  he  gave  as  a sentiment, — 
“ The  memory  of  those  who  instituted  our  system  of  public  schools. 


39 


Embalmed  in  the  affectionate  regard  of  the  countless  number  who 
have  been,  and  who  shall  be,  benefited  by  its  provisions.” 

10.  44  The  Preceptors  of  Bristol  Academy.  We  reap  where  they 
sowed.  May  they  see  with  joy  yet  greater  harvests  here.” 

The  Rev.  Luther  Bailey,  of  Medway,  the  oldest  living  Preceptor, 
replied.  He  alluded  to  the  past  history  of  the  Academy,  and  to  his 
own  connection  with  it  nearly  forty  years  ago.  He  mentioned  the 
names  of  the  distinguished  men  who  were  then  its  guardians,  and 
on  whom  he  relied  for  counsel  and  aid.  He  compared  the  former 
things  with  the  present,  and  spoke  with  hope  concerning  the  new 
prospects  of  the  institution  which  he  loved.  He  closed  with  an 
affectionate  tribute  to  his  predecessor  in  office,  which  was  followed 

by 

11.  “The  Memory  of  the  Rev.  Simeon  Doggett,  first  Preceptor 
of  the  Academy.  4 Quis  desiderio  sit  pudor  aut  modus  tarn  cari 
capitis.’  ” 

Music,  Pleyel’s  Hymn.  Company  standing. 

12.  “ The  Clergy.  The  open  archives  of  Bristol  Academy,  and 
the  dearest  memories  of  friends  here  to-day,  honor  the  office  which 
would  confirm  wisdom  by  practical  virtue,  and  consecrate  it  by 
Christian  faith.” 

The  Rev.  Thomas  P.  Rodman,  of  Bridgewater,  eloquently  re- 
sponded, and  spoke  of  the  reciprocal  benefits  which  the  profession 
of  teaching  and  of  the  ministry  had  conferred  and  received. 

13  “ The  neighboring  Academies  of  the  Old  Colony.  Their 
cause  is  our  cause.  May  the  rivalry  of  our  energies  never  break 
the  unity  of  our  friendship.” 

Nicholas  Tillinghast,  Esq.,  Principal  of  the  Normal  School  at 
Bridgewater,  who  was  expected  to  reply  to  this  toast,  having  been 
obliged  to  leave  the  hall  at  an  earlier  hour,  and  J.  W.  P.  Jenks,  Esq., 
of  the  Peirce  Academy,  Middleborough,  being  unexpectedly  de- 
tained, no  response  was  made  to  this  toast. 

14.  “The  Memory  of  General  David  Cobb,  4 Patron  and  Found- 
er of  Bristol  Academy.’  A brave  soldier,  a resolute  judge,  a con- 
stant friend  to  learning,  and  a true,  large-hearted  man.” 

15.  44  The  first  Scholars  of  Bristol  Academy.  A venerable  few 
are  left  of  that  joyous  throng.  Their  presence  to-day  is  a bene- 
diction.” 

The  Hon.  John  M.  Williams,  formerly  Chief  Justice  of  the  Court 
of  Common  Pleas,  appropriately  answered  to  these  toasts  in  the 
following  interesting  address,  which  was  read  for  him  by  his  son. 


40 


“ The  occasion  of  our  social  gathering  at  this  time  is,  to  my  feel- 
ings, full  of  interesting  reminiscences  and  associations.  It  is  pleas- 
ant, in  life’s  evening  twilight,  to  revisit  the  scenes  and  review  the 
incidents  of  life’s  brighter  morning.  Especially  and  deeply  interest- 
ing is  it  to  the  memory  and  the  heart,  to  review  those  incidents  and 
events  which  have  exercised  a material,  an  essential  influence  on 
our  own  lives  and  characters.  Such  to  me  was  the  establishment 
of  Bristol  Academy*  Fifty-six  years  ago  this  institution  commenced 
its  active  existence,  and  was  dedicated  to  the  cause  of  good  educa- 
tion and  sound  learning.  I was  then  sixteen  years  of  age.  I was 
an  actor  in  the  ceremonies  of  dedication,  and  was  one  of  the  first 
pupils  who  entered  its  walls.  That  event  changed  the  whole  cur- 
rent and  tenor  of  my  life,  and  made  me  what  I am.  What  I should 
otherwise  have  been,  it  is  impossible  now  to  say  and  vain  to  conjec- 
ture. Possibly  I might  have  been  a better  and  more  useful  man. 
I believe  my  life  would  have  been  less  happy,  because  intellectual 
employment  gives  me  more  pleasure  than  any  other.  But  for  what 
I am,  I am  indebted  to  the  establishment  of  this  institution,  and  to 
its  establishment  at  that  particular  period  of  time.  Bear  with  me, 
my  friends,  while  I explain  this  emphatic  declaration,  by  dwelling 
a moment  on  my  previous  pursuits  and  prospects.  It  is  one  of  the 
privileges  of  old  age  to  be  garrulous  and  egotistical,  and  I trust  your 
kindness  will  indulge  me  in  its  exercise. 

“ For  several  years  previous  to  the  opening  of  this  Academy,  I 
had  been  employed  as  a shop-boy,  behind  the  counter  of  a country 
retail  store.  Those  were  not  temperance  times.  There  was  then 
no  Maine  Liquor  Law  in  force,  or  in  contemplation.  Every  country 
store  had  a tavern  license,  and  not  only  contained  an  assortment 
of  dry  goods  and  family  groceries,  but  was  also  a grog-shop  and  a 
bar-room.  My  business  was,  therefore,  to  deal  out  gin  and  ginger, 
molasses  and  muslins,  rum  and  ribbons,  to  suit  the  taste  or  gratify 
the  cravings  of  every  customer.  I had  received  a common-school 
education,  such  as  our  common  schools  then  imparted.  I could 
read  fluently,  write  legibly,  and  was  tolerably  familiar  with  the 
common  rules  of  arithmetic.  I supposed  my  education , in  the  usual 
signification  of  that  term,  was  completed,  and  that  any  further  ac- 
quisitions of  learning,  if  obtained  by  me,  must  be  obtained  by  my 
own  unaided  exertions  in  my  intervals  of  leisure.  I supposed  my 
employment  and  destination  for  life  were  fixed,  and  that  I was  to 
live  and  die  a country  trader.  I had  hardly  indulged  a hope,  a 
wish,  or  an  aspiration  for  any  higher  or  different  employment.  Not 
that  I would  insinuate  that  a country  trader  may  not  be  as  respect- 
able and  intellectual  as  other  men.  Such  an  insinuation  would  be 
exceedingly  unjust,  as  well  as  unbecoming  ; and  especially  so  when 
the  Governor  of  the  Commonwealth,  who  this  day  honors  us  with 
his  presence,  has  proved,  by  his  own  life  and  example,  that  such 
an  employment  is  not  incompatible  with  high  intellectual  attain- 
ments and  extensive  and  important  public  services. 

“ When  the  Academy  was  about  to  be  opened,  my  father,  who 


41 


was  one  of  the  original  Trustees,  proposed  that  I should  for  one 
quarter  enjoy  its  privileges  as  a pupil.  I did  so,  and  at  the  close  of 
the  first  term  I returned,  with  feelings  of  reluctance  and  sadness,  to 
my  former  employment.  But  new  desires  and  new  aspirations  were 
kindled  ; and  I longed,  though  I dared  not  hope,  to  pursue  my 
studies  through  a collegiate  course.  Mr.  Doggett  — then  and  al- 
ways my  friend,  of  whom  I never  think  without  feelings  of  grate- 
ful veneration  — perceived  the  reluctance  with  which  I abandoned 
my  studies,  and  encouraged  me  to  pursue  them  in  the  intervals  of 
my  daily  occupations.  My  employment  in  the  store  was  not  con- 
stant and  pressing.  I had  many  leisure  moments,  and  he  kindly 
offered  to  guide  me  and  to  hear  me  recite  whenever  I could  come 
to  him  for  that  purpose.  The  offer  was  accepted,  and  thus  passed 
the  second  term  of  the  Academy.  At  the  commencement  of  the 
third  term,  my  father  and  my  employers  consented  that  I should 
return  to  the  Academy  as  a pupil,  abandon  trade,  and  pursue  sci- 
ence and  literature.  The  result  you  know,  and  I will  therefore 
relieve  you  from  any  further  autobiography.  Enough  has  been 
said  to  enable  you  to  perceive  the  truth  and  propriety  of  my  decla- 
ration, that  the  establishment  of  this  institution  changed  the  whole 
current  of  my  life,  and  made  me  what  I am. 

“ Deeply  indebted,  then,  as  I am,  and  as  others  now  present  and 
elsewhere  are,  to  the  founders  of  this  institution  for  the  develop- 
ment of  our  intellectual  powers,  let  me  solicit  your  indulgence  while 
I pay  a brief  and  passing  tribute  of  grateful  remembrance  to  their 
characters.  The  names  of  the  original  Trustees  (thirteen  in  num- 
ber) are  inscribed  in  visible  characters  on  the  legislative  act  of  in- 
corporation ; but  on  this  occasion  there  seems  to  be  a propriety  in 
their  audible  repetition. 

“The  first  named  on  the  list  is  Walter  Spooner,  of  New  Bed- 
ford,— a man  of  little  early  education,  but  of  vigorous  intellect  and 
energetic  character  ; a senator  and  councillor  of  the  Common- 
wealth, and  a judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas. 

“The  next  is  William  Baylies,  of  Dighton,  — a gentleman  of 
liberal  education  and  cultivated  taste,  an  eminent  physician,  a judge 
of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas,  and  afterwards  register  of  probate. 

“David  Cobb,  of  Taunton,  an  aid  of  Washington  in  the  time  of 
the  Revolution  ; a judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas  and  a major- 
general  of  the  militia  in  the  time  of  Shays’s  insurrection,  when  he  is 
said  to  have  made  the  memorable  declaration,  while  the  insurgents 
were  gathering  in  great  numbers  in  this  town  to  put  down  the  court, 
that  he  would  “ sit  as  a judge  or  die  as  a general  ” ; a represen- 
tative, senator,  councillor,  lieutenant-governor  of  the  Common- 
wealth, and  representative  in  Congress;  rash  in  speech,  but  pru- 
dent in  action ; sometimes  harsh  in  language,  but  always  kind 
in  heart,  and  always  ready  to  aid  in  any  enterprise  which  his 
judgment  approved.  He  labored  more  than  any  other  man,  and  his 
influence  was  more  effectual,  in  obtaining  the  charter  and  endow- 
ment of  the  institution.  If  I mistake  not,  there  is,  among  the  early 


42 


records  of  the  Trustees,  a vote  that  he  should  be  deemed  the  founder 
of  the  Academy. 

“Elisha  May,  of  Attleborough, — a respected  and  respectable 
citizen  and  magistrate,  and  a senator  and  councillor  of  the  Com- 
monwealth. 

“ James  Williams,  of  Taunton,  — my  father. 

“ Apollos  Leonard, — a trustworthy  and  honored  citizen  and 
magistrate ; for  a number  of  years  the  treasurer  of  the  town  and 
county,  and  representative  in  the  legislature. 

“Seth  Padelford,  of  Taunton, — an  eminent  lawyer  and  my 
professional  instructor ; for  some  years  at  the  head  of  his  profession 
in  the  Old  Colony,  and  the  judge  of  probate  for  this  county. 

“ Samuel  Fales,  of  Taunton, — a faithful  clerk  of  the  courts, 
and  afterwards  a judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas  in  this  county, 
a senator,  councillor,  and  a man  of  enterprise  and  extensive  business. 

“ Samuel  Leonard,  of  Taunton, — a gentleman,  the  tenuity  and 
frailty  of  whose  corporeal  frame  but  faintly  imaged  the  vigor,  ac- 
tivity, and  energy  of  his  mind. 

“Next  in  order  are  three  brothers,  — Simeon  Tisdale,  James 
Tisdale,  and  Joseph  Tisdale.  James  Tisdale  was  a native  of 
Taunton,  but  was  then  an  enterprising,  and  supposed  to  be  a succes- 
ful  merchant  in  Boston.  I believe  he  is  the  only  Trustee  who  ever 
received  his  appointment  while  residing  out  of  this  county.  Simeon 
and  Joseph  Tisdale  were  partners  in  extensive  business  in  Taunton, 
in  whose  store  I was  employed  at  the  time  of  the  opening  of  the 
Academy. 

“ Jonathan  Cobb,  of  Taunton,  is  the  last  on  the  list.  He  was  a 
brother  of  the  General,  — a man  of  considerable  wealth,  business, 
and  respectability  of  character 

“ My  impression  is,  that,  before  the  Academy  was  open  for  in- 
struction, the  Rev.  Dr.  Fobes  of  Raynham,  a distinguished  divine, 
and  a professor  of  natural  and  experimental  philosophy  in  Brown 
University,  became  a member  of  the  Board,  took  an  active  part  in 
its  organization  and  proceedings,  prepared  the  original  code  of  by- 
laws for  the  government  of  the  institution,  and  the  advertisement 
published  in  the  newspapers  of  the  time,  announcing  its  approach- 
ing opening,  and  stating,  somewhat  in  detail,  its  situation,  objects, 
and  advantages.* 

* “ I find,  on  examination,  that  my  impression  as  to  Dr.  Fobes  becoming 
a member  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  before  the  Academy  was  opened  is  correct. 

“ Since  writing  the  foregoing  address,  I have  examined  the  file  of  the  Co- 
lumbian Centinel  for  the  year  1796,  and  I there  find  the  advertisement  there- 
in mentioned,  published  in  June  of  that  year.  It  is  an  interesting  document, 
explaining  at  considerable  length  the  design  and  objects  of  the  institution,  and 
the  views  of  the  Trustees.  I think  it  would  be  well  to  preserve  a copy  of  it 
among  its  archives,  to  enable  those  who  read  it  to  compare  its  promises  with 
its  performances.  The  following  is  a literal  copy  : — 

“BRISTOL  ACADEMY, 

“ By  permission  of  Divine  Providence,  will  be  opened  on  the  18th  July. 

“This  Academy  rises  into  existence  from  the  liberal  patronage  of  the  Leg- 


43 


“ Among  the  founders  and  early  friends  of  this  institution,  I can- 
not pass  by  in  silence  the  name  of  Simeon  Doggett,  the  first  Pre- 
ceptor.  1 stop  not  now  to  speak  his  praise.  The  simple  memoir 
of  his  life,  recently  prepared  and  published,  is  his  sufficient  eulogy. 
INIo  one  felt  more  intensely,  labored  more  assiduously,  prayed  more 
fervently,  than  he,  for  its  prosperity  and  usefulness. 


lslature  of  the  State,  and  the  noble  exertions  of  private  gentlemen  in  the  coun- 
ty, now  incorporated  as  the  Trustees  of  the  Academy.  The  building,  which  is 
delightsome  and  well  constructed  for  its  design,  is  situated  in  the  pleasant  and 
[laS^  of  Taunton,  near  the  meeting  house.  The  Corporation  have 
seen  ht  to  elect  Mr.  Simeon  Doggett,  jun.,  as  Preceptor  of  the  Academy ; a 
gentleman  who,  for  five  years  past,  having  been  instructor  in  a college! has 
h!lTCh  eXPene"c.e  conducting  youth,  and  also  having,  for  some  years, 
been  a preacher  of  the  Gospel,  is  on  that  account  probably  better  qualified  to 
discharge  the  moral  and  religious  duties  of  the  office.  He  is  responsible  to  the 
Corporation  for  the  well  ordering  and  right  instruction  of  the  Academy  ; and 
is  obliged  to  supply  himself  with  one  or  more  male  assistants,  according  as 
numbers  may  require.  The  Academy  is  designed  and  constructed  for  the  ed- 
ucauon  of  both  young  ladies  and  masters,  who  will  be  in  different  apartments. 
1 he  English  scholars  will  be  taught  reading,  spelling,  writing,  arithmetic,  and 
the  higher  branches  of  mathematics  ; if  desired,  English  grammar,  composi- 
tion, the  elements  of  criticism,  geography,  the  principles  of  philosophy,  the 
outlines  of  history  and  chronology,  logic  and  ethics.  These  branches  will  be 
varied  and  more  or  less  insisted  on,  according  to  the  genius  or  the  peculiar 
destination  of  the  scholar.  The  boys  will  also  be  taught  the  art  of  speaking  ; 
and  the  misses,  needlework,  as  a fine  art,  in  all  its  branches.  For  their  Pre- 
ceptress, the  Trustees  have  elected  a lady  who  was  educated  in  the  capital 
and  comes  amply  recommended,  as  possessing  abilities,  accomplishments;  and 
due  expenence  for  the  office.  The  learned  languages  will  be  taught  those 
who  are  preparing  for  college,  and  all  other  branches  which  are  proper  quali- 
fications for  entrance,  and  preparations  for  any  standing  in  college  may  here 
beobtamed.  There  will  also  generally  be  literary  and  moral  lectures  delivered 
on  Saturday,  by  the  Preceptor ; and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Fobes,  one  of  the  Trustees  of 
the  Academy,  proposes,  when  he  can  make  necessary  arrangements,  occasion- 
a ly  to  deliver  lectures  on  the  more  simple,  easy,  and  popular  parts  of  experi- 
mental philosophy.  The  manners  of  the  scholars  will  be  particularly  attended 
to;  and  their  religion  and  morality,  reading  and  company,  conscientiously 
regarded  and  directed.  There  will  be  four  vacations  in  each  year;  viz  one 
week  in  January;  three  in  April ; one  in  July;  and  four  in  October.  Each 
term  of  study  will  close  with  specimens  of  improvement;  viz.  two  examina- 
tions, one  exhibition  of  declamation,  and  one  from  the  school  of  manners 
for  tuition  in  a 1 these  branches,  and  the  use  of  the  building,  tico  dollars  a 
quarter  will  be  charged  to  each  scholar  of  both  sexes  Besides,  there  will  be 
charged  to  each  such  books  and  school  apparatus  as  are  necessary,  with  which 
scholars  do  not  come  furnished ; and  also  articles  that  are  consumed  in  com- 
mon as  wood,  brooms,  &c.  These  bills  will  be  issued  and  paid  quarterly 
To  the  above  system  will  be  annexed  a school  of  manners,  or  dancing-school- 
for  which  will  be  charged  those  who  please  to  attend  it,  three  dollars  t he  quar- 

k eI  in  a/yle  SUlt,able  for  schoIars’  together  with  washing  and  lodging, 
maybe  obtained  in  regular  and  reputable  families,  in  and  nea?  the  villagf 
wiffi  room  for  evening  and  morning  studies,  from  9s.  to  10s.  6d.  per  week 
The  public  will  pardon  this  detail  of  particulars,  — the  design  of  it  bein<r  to 
give  a just  idea  of  a new  Academy;  that  parents,  and  all  our  fellow-citizens, 
in  or  out  of  the  county  or  State,  who  feel  themselves  interested  in  the  areat 
work  of  education,  might  be  able  to  form  their  judgments  of  this  seat  of  lSera- 
ure,  and  should  any  think  well  enough  of  it  to  honor  us  with  their  patronage, 
they  might,  without  further  trouble,  come  forward  immediately. 

M T “ James  Williams, 

ne  Secretary  of  the  Corporation. 


44 


“ These  are  the  men  to  whom  we  are  indebted  for  the  establish- 
ment of  this  seat  of  learning.  Doubless  they  had  their  frailties, 
but  who,  on  this  occasion,  would  wish  to  ‘call  them  from  their 
dread  abode’?  Some  of  them  may  have  had  among  themselves, 
on  other  subjects,  jealousies,  rivalries,  possibly  animosities;  but  in 
this  work  of  philanthropy  they  united  in  cordial  cooperation.  They 
have  all  passed  away,  but  this,  their  work,  has  not  passed  away 
with  them.  It  remains  an  ever-during  monument  of  their  labors 
of  love  for  the  benefit  of  successive  rising  generations.  They  have 
passed  away ; but  thanks  be  to  God,  instead  of  the  fathers , rise 
up  the  children  to  watch  over  its  interests,  to  enlarge  the  place  of 
its  tent , to  stretch  forth  the  curtains  of  its  habitations , to  lengthen 
its  cords  and  strengthen  its  stakes  ! 

“ But  I forbear  to  enlarge.  I fear  I have  already  occupied  more 
than  my  share  of  our  allotted  time.  I will  conclude,  therefore, 
with  this  brief  sentiment : — 

“ The  Founders  and  early  Friends  of  Bristol  Academy,  ‘ Honored 
be  their  names,  and  blessed  be  their  memories.’  ” 

Music. 

16.  “The  Trustees  of  the  Academy.  May  those  who  share 
now  the  honors  and  the  privilege  of  the  office  emulate  the  fidelity 
of  those  who  in  former  years  have  borne  its  burdens.” 

To  this  toast,  the  Hon.  Horatio  Pratt,  of  the  Board  of  Trustees, 
replied. 

Mr.  Pratt  said,  he  supposed  one  might  be  blinded  with  gazing 
upon  diamonds.  He  was  sure  that  one  might  be  cloyed  with  elo- 
quence, — satiated  even  with  fine  music.  It  was  therefore  wise, 
perhaps,  in  the  presiding  officer  to  call  on  him  to  throw  some  peb- 
bles into  the  stream  of  rhetoric  which  had  flowed  so  smoothly.  He 
hoped,  however,  the  genial  flow  of  the  occasion  might  not  be 
checked  by  any  grave  associations  suggested  by  the  toast  to  which 
he  was  called  on  to  respond.  The  awe  and  reverence  with  which 
we  are  accustomed  to  look  upon  the  officers  or  trustees  of  a literary 
institution,  are  merely  conventional.  Except  on  examination  days, 
they  can  exhibit  the  same  ‘ infirmities  of  wit  and  speech  ’ as  other 
men.  It  would  not  become  him,  a younger  member  of  the  Board, 
to  speak  of  his  seniors  who  were  present, — present  excellence 
might  wait  for  posthumous  honors,  — he  would  recur  rather  to 
the  past.  If  he  were  to  rehearse  the  praises  and  recount  the  value 
of  the  labors  of  the  founders  and  early  friends  of  the  Academy,  the 
sun  would  go  down  upon  the  record.  Their  laurels  have  been 
gathered,  and  have  not  yet  become  dust.  We  see  them  by  the  light 
of  memory,  which  lingers  — long  may  it  linger ! — on  their  rest- 
ing-places and  their  monuments. 

It  was  no  easy  thing  in  their  day  to  establish  an  institution  like 
this  on  an  enduring  basis.  That  they  did  so,  the  thousands  who 
have  received  the  benefit  of  its  instructions,  and  this  scene  about 


45 


us,  all  bear  grateful  witness.  But  the  eyes  which  beam  here  to-day 
with  pleasant  memories  also  recognize  some  of  the  associates  and 
successors  of  those  early  men  in  the  government  of  the  institution, 
by  whose  fidelity  and  care  its  prosperity  has  been  secured.  Our 
thanks  are  due  to  them,  and  to  those  also,  absent  but  not  forgotten, 
their  associates  in  this  trust.  They  behold  now  in  its  strength  and 
manhood  the  institution  which  they  consecrated  in  its  weakness 
and  infancy,  but  in  hope,  to  good  learning  and  sound  morals. 
Their  hope  has  been  realized.  They  witness  the  fruition  of  their 
faith,  — as  who  shall  not,  that  sows  the  seeds  of  human  culture. 

It  is  not  a small  thing  to  establish  and  keep  up  a single  seminary 
of  learning,  — its  streams  may  flow  far  and  wide  through  the  com- 
munity. One  leaf  from  the  volumes  of  the  Sibyl  was  of  priceless 
value.  But  it  is  sometimes  more  easy  to  build  up,  than  to  keep  up. 

It  is  rare  that  any  local  institution  of  learning  maintains  for  a long 
series  of  years  a high  reputation.  Carelessness,  neglect  in  keeping 
up  to  the  advancing  standards  of  the  times,  gradually  impair  its 
character,  and  competing  institutions  eclipse  its  renown.  We  qan- 
not  in  this  day  be  insensible  to  human  progress.  True  conserva- 
tism blends  the  present  with  the  past.  A decaying  institution  is  a 
sad  spectacle.  More  sad,  a decayed  teacher,  who  has  stood  idly  by 
the  current,  drinking  no  fresh  drafts,  because  its  waters  were  not 
classic  ; wondering  that  his  fane  is  deserted,  his  teachings  slighted, 

clinging  with  instinctive  fondness  to  the  broken  column  which 

has  mouldered  from  the  pedestal,  and  fallen  with  him  to  the  earth. 

Plato  inscribed  over  the  entrance  of  his  academy  at  Athens, 

“ Let  no  one  enter  here  who  is  ignorant  of  Geometry.”  This  might 
be  somewhat  too  exclusive  for  our  day.  But  at  least  the  instructor 
should  take  care  that  those  who  enter  should  find  living  streams. 
The  business  of  instruction  is  taking  rank  with  the  professions.  It 
is  becoming  as  honorable  with  us  as  it  was  in  that  little  Athenian 
republic,  where  the  love  of  art  and  letters  seemed  to  be  an  instinct 
and  a passion.  Our  teachers  may  not,  indeed,  realize  such  fruit 
from  their  labors  as  those  who  taught  in  Grecian  gardens  and  ly- 
ceums,  or  as  he  of  old  who  was  able  to  bestow  a statue  of  him- 
self, of  pure  gold,  upon  the  Temple  of  Delphi,  but  they  may  devote 
what  is  of  more  value  than  golden  statues,  their  integrity,  fidelity, 
and  skill,  at  the  shrines  of  learning. 

With  such  auspices  as  surround  us  here  to-day,  we  cannot 
doubt  the  continued  prosperity  of  our  institution,  whose  new  house 
we  now  dedicate.  May  the  past  and  the  present  be  here  so  crys- 
tallized together  as  to  illumine  the  future.  Mr.  Pratt  gave,  in  con- 
clusion,— “The  Common  Schools  of  New  England.  May  the 
next  half-century  find  them  all  High  Schools.” 

17.  “ The  Preceptresses  of  Bristol  Academy.  Honor  to  those 
who,  teaching  the  wives  and  mothers  here,  have  made  the  men.” 

In  replying  to  this  toast,  J.  Otis  Williams,  Esq.,  of  Boston,  spoke 
of  the  difficulty  of  answering  to  so  broad  and  comprehensive  a 


toast.  He  paid  a high  compliment  to  the  worth  and  fidelity  of  the 
gentler  sex  in  the  work  of  instruction.  He  humorously  pointed 
out  the  improved  matrimonial  prospects  of  a teacher  to-day,  and 
showed  how  the  discipline  of  the  school-room  was  an  admirable 
preparation  for  the  duties  of  home.  To  female  influen6e  he  refer- 
red the  noblest  elements  of  masculine  character.  He  gave,  as  a 
toast,  — “ Woman,  the  Preceptress.  In  childhood  she  wins  us  to 
learn  our  A,  B,  G’s,  and  in  manhood  she  warns  us  to  mind  our 
P’s  and  Q’s.” 

Music. 

18.  “ The  Alumni  of  the  Academy.  Her  children  are  her  her- 


itage, the  jewels  in  her  crown.” 

In  answer  to  this  toast,  a letter  from  Hodges  Reed,  Esq.,  a for- 
mer pupil  of  the  Academy,  was  read. 


“ Taunton,  August  23,  1852. 

“ Dear  Sir,  — 

“ I shall  ever  esteem  it  an  honor  to  have  been  invited  to  be  pres- 
ent and  take  a part  in  the  ceremonies  connected  with  the  final  va- 
cation of  the  Old,  and  occupation  of  the  New  Academy.  I am  sorry 
to  say  that  our  annual  family  reunion,  on  the  Old  Homestead , oc- 
curs on  the  same  day,  and  my  attendance  will,  therefore,  be  im- 
practicable. Yours  will,  doubtless,  be  a highly  interesting  and  hap- 
py meeting.  It  would  give  me  great  pleasure  to  be  present  with  the 
alumni  of  Bristol  Academy,  and  especially  to  look  upon  the  faces 
of  some  of  those  scarred  climbers,  who  shared  with  myself  the  in- 
structions of  Father  Doggett,  some  five-and-forty  years  ago.  My 
sympathies,  as  you  may  well  suppose,  are  with  the  Old  Academy . 
She  has  done  a good  work.  She  has  been  a faithful  mother,  for 
more  than  half  a century ; nor  do  her  latest  children,  as  I am  in- 
formed, show  any  signs  of  decrepitude  in  her.  It  is  not  the  first 
time,  however,  that  daughters  have  been  known  to  elbow  their  moth- 
ers off  the  stage,  before  they  ought  or  were  quite  ready  to  leave. 
The  daughter,  it  is  true,  comes  forward  with  a bold  front,  promis- 
ing to  be  somebody  ; but  she  has  got  to  make  a character  for  her- 
self. As  I look  at  herewith  her  narrow  twinkling  eyes,  I can  hard- 
ly  help  exclaiming : 1 \ ou  need  not  put  on  airs,  now,  for  you  are 
not  half  as  handsome  as  your  mother  was,  in  the  days  of  her 
bloom.’  But,  after  all,  if  she  will  only  show  proper  respect  to  her 
mother  and  her  mother’s  children  of  an  older  growth,  she  may  yet 
do  well.  We  would  not  disparage  her  beauty,  because  we  once 
thought  her  mother  was  a paragon ; but  will  console  her  with  one 
of  Humility’s  old  proverbs,  ‘ Handsome  is  that  handsome  does.’ 

“ Progress  — modernism  — is  an  enemy  to  longevity.  The  gen- 
eration now  coming  upon  the  stage  are  fulfilling  with  pious  zeal  the 
Divine  injunction,  to  forget  the  things  that  are  behind.  So  said  the 
Old  Academy  to  me,  as  I was  passing  by  her,  the  other  day,  to  look 
at  the  New. 


47 


“ Our  Alma  Mater  has  brought  forth  not  a few  distinguished  men. 
She  can  boast  of  her  judges  and  senators  and  lawyers  and  physi- 
cians, — men  of  renown ; and  also  of  her  divines  and  literary 
men,  who  have  made  their  mark  upon  their  times  ; a goodly  num- 
ber of  whom  will  probably  be  present,  to  cast  their  laurels  at  the 
feet  of  their  aged  mother,  for  the  benefit  of  herself  and  all  her 
children.  And  this  is  what  gives  such  a charm  to  these  demonstra- 
tions. It  is  that  we  who  have  glided  through  the  world,  without 
note  or  comment !,  will  be,  on  that  occasion,  just  as  much  judges,  and 
senators,  and  marked  men,  as  they  themselves.  We  are  all  the 
children  of  one  mother,  — all  belong  to  one  family ; and  as  she  is 
about  to  leave  us,  we  put  in  our  claim  for  an  equal  division  of  the 
honors.  We  will  say,  with  some  assurance,  Is  any  man  a gov- 
ernor ? So  are  we  governors.  Is  any  man  a senator  ? So  are 
we  senators.  Is  any  man  remarkable  ? So  are  we  all,  for  once 
in  our  lives,  remarkables. 

“ Of  the  alumni,  some  have  made  their  mark  in  high  places,  and 
some  in  low  ; some  where  it  could  be  seen  of  all  men,  and  some 
where  all  men  could  hardly  see  it ; — with  the  pen  and  the  plough  ; 
with  the  purse  and  the  sword ; the  pulpit  and  the  plane ; the  tongue 
and  the  yardstick ; the  lancet  and  the  compass  ; — it  matters  not  so 
much  which,  provided  we  do  not  forget  that  we  all  belong  to  one 
family.  We  all  dug  in  the  same  mine  together,  and  all  used  the 
same  implements,  and  the  only  reason  why  we  did  not  find  the 
treasure  must  have  been  the  simple  fact,  that  the  lucky  men  dug 
a little  below  us. 

“ To  be  sure,  in  our  old  reading-lessons  was  found  this  line : 

1 Nature,  in  men,  has  some  small  difference  made  ’ ; but  we  have 
about  come  to  the  conclusion  that  that  was  all  poetry.  This,  how- 
ever, is  of  little  consequence,  since,  after  they  have  spent  a good 
part  of  their  days  in  beating  the  bush,  we  can  come  in  at  the 
death,  and  take  our  share  of  the  bird. 

“ Many  of  the  older  children,  together  with  the  first  Preceptor, 
have  gone  the  way  of  all  the  earth  ; but  some  honored  names  re- 
main to  take  their  last  look  at  the  Old  Academy.  They  will  not 
forget  their  kind-hearted  teacher,  who  was  wont  to  comfort  such  of 
his  boys  as  were  discouraged  and  almost  ready  to  give  up  all  for 
lost,  because  of  their  slow  progress  among  the  roots , in  the  follow- 
ing words  : ‘ Don’t  give  it  up  so.  Remember  you  must  creep  be- 
fore you  can  go  alone.  The  best  creepers  generally  make  the 
best  runners.’  Some  of  them,  in  due  time,  did  run,  all  the  better 
for  his  kind  words.  But  I fear  that  I have  detained  you  too  long. 
With  your  permission,  I will  close  with  the  following  sentiment : — 

“ The  New  Academy.  May  she,  during  the  coming  half-centu- 
ry, give  birth  to  as  many  honorable  men  as  has  her  predecessor 
during  the  past. 

“ Respectfully  yours, 

“ Hodges  Reed. 

i(  George  A.  Crocker,  Esq.” 


48 


19.  The  closing  toast  was,  “ The  Old  School-House.  ‘ Should 
auld  acquaintance  be  forgot.’  ” 

The  answer  was  in  the  song  of  “ Auld  Lang  Syne,”  sung  by  all 
present,  standing. 

Several  volunteer  toasts  were  also  given. 

By  the  Hon.  Johnson  Gardner.  “ Our  Academies  and  Common 
Schools.  The  guardians  of  our  liberty  and  the  hope  of  the  age.” 

By  Edmund  H.  Bennett,  Esq.  “ Bristol  Academy.  Fortunate 
in  being  built  by  an  Upjohn,  — may  it  be  successful  in  building 
many  a poor  John-up.” 

By  Samuel  W.  Doggett,  Esq.,  son  of  the  Rev.  Simeon  Doggett. 
“ Bristol  Academy.  Notwithstanding  so  many  fond  recollections 
cluster  around  its  past  history,  its  morning  splendor  has  but  just 
begun  to  shine ; what  shall  be  its  meridian  glory,  we  leave  future 
generations  to  tell.” 

By  the  Hon.  Thomas  D.  Eliot.  “ Bristol  Academy.  What- 
ever mechanics  built  it,  it  will  take  a Wheelwright  and  a Sawyer 
to  make  it  go.” 

A large  number  of  letters  in  reply  to  invitations  to  be  present 
were  received,  a few  of  which,  from  former  Trustees,  teachers,  and 
pupils,  are  printed  here. 


1.  From  the  Hon.  Samuel  Crocker,  former  Treasurer  and  Presi- 


dent of  the  Board. 


“ Taunton , August  24th,  1852. 


“ Gentlemen, — 

“ It  gave  me  great  pleasure  to  receive  your  kind  and  respectful 
invitation  to  be  present  at  the  public  exercises  and  collation  on  the 
opening  of  the  new  Academy  building,  on  Wednesday,  the  25th 
instant. 

“ This  is  an  event  which  I have  looked  forward  to  with  great  in- 
terest, and  I regret  exceedingly  that  my  infirmity  is  such  at  present, 
that  I cannot  encounter  the  fatigue  of  ascending  your  rooms,  and 
beg  leave  to  be  excused  for  being  absent  on  this  very  interesting 
occasion. 

“ lam,  gentlemen,  very  sincerely  and  truly,  your  humble  servant, 

“ Samuel  Crocker. 


“To  the  Trustees  of  Bristol  Academy.” 


2.  From  the  Hon.  Eliphalet  Williams,  of  Boston,  a former  Trustee. 

“ Boston , August  23 d,  1852. 

“Dear  Sir, — 

“ I have  the  pleasure  to  acknowledge  your  kind  invitation  of  the 
Trustees  of  Bristol  Academy  in  Taunton,  for  Wednesday,  the 
25th  of  August. 


49 


44  Sir,  it  would  give  me  great  pleasure  could  I accept  it ; but, 
although  my  health  is  good,  my  infirmities  are  of  such  an  age,  they 
will  control,  and  I must  respectfully  decline. 

“ Please  present  my  best  respects  to  your  Trustees,  and  say  that 
I should  with  much  pleasure  be  with  them,  were  circumstances 
more  favorable. 

44  And  that  the  future  success  of  your  institution  may  meet  the 
most  ardent  anticipations  of  your  Trustees,  is  the  fervent  wish  of 
your  most  obedient  servant, 

“ Eliphalet  Williams. 

“Charles  H.  Brigham,  Esq.,  Secretary." 

3.  From  Otis  Peirce,  Esq.,  a former  Preceptor. 

“ Boston , August  23d,  1852. 

“Dear  Sir, — 

44  Your  letters,  giving  me  a polite  invitation  to  attend  the  exercises 
at  the  opening  of  the  new  Academy  building  in  Taunton,  have  both 
been  received.  In  reply  to  which  I would  say,  it  would  afford  me 
the  greatest  satisfaction  to  visit  Taunton  once  more,  especially  Bris- 
tol Academy,  with  which  are  associated  some  of  my  best  recollec- 
tions, and  in  which  I have  spent  so  many  happy  hours,  in  teaching 
and  in  being  taught ; for  there  I commenced  my  literary  pursuits, 
and  to  that  institution,  then  under  the  care  of  the  Rev.  Simeon  Dog- 
gett,  and  afterwards  the  Rev.  Luther  Bailey,  I am  indebted  for  the 
best  part  of  my  education. 

44  While  it  would  afford  me  the  greatest  satisfaction  to  accept 
your  kind  invitation,  and  to  meet  my  Taunton  friends  once  more  on 
that  happy  spot,  ever  dear  to  me,  I am  obliged  to  say  it  will  not  be 
convenient  for  me  to  attend.  Please  accept  my  thanks  for  your 
polite  invitation,  and  my  best  wishes  for  the  prosperity  and  useful- 
ness of  Bristol  Academy. 

44  Your  most  obedient  and  humble  servant, 

“ Otis  Peirce. 

“Charles  H.  Brigham,  Esq.” 

4.  From  the  Rev.  John  L.  Watson,  D.  D.,  a former  Preceptor. 

“ Grace  Church  Rectory , Newark,  N.  J.,  August  11  th,  1852. 

44  Rev.  and  dear  Sir,  — 

44  Your  favor  of  the  4th  instant,  covering  an  invitation  from  the 
Trustees  of  Bristol  Academy,  in  Taunton,  4 to  be  present  at  the 
public  exercises  and  collation  at  the  opening  of  the  new  Academy 
building,’  has  just  reached  me. 

44 1 beg  you  to  return  my  acknowledgments  to  the  Trustees  for 
the  kind  invitation  with  which  they  have  honored  me,  and  shall  have 
the  gratification  of  attending  on  that  occasion,  if  it  please  God,  4 as 
a former  Preceptor  of  Bristol  Academy.’ 

44  With  much  respect,  I am,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

44  John  Lee  Watson. 

“For  the  Rev.  Charles  H.  Brigham,  &c.,  &c.” 

7 


00 


5.  From  the  lion.  S.  S.  Wilde,  Judge  of  the  Supreme  Court,  a 
native  of  Taunton. 

“ Boston , August , 1852. 

“ Dear  Sir,  — 

“ I am  truly  grateful  to  the  Trustees  of  the  Bristol  Academy  for 
their  obliging  invitation  to  be  present  at  the  public  exercises  on 
the  opening  of  their  new  Academy  building.  It  would  certainly 
afford  me  great  pleasure  to  be  present  on  that  interesting  occasion, 
and  to  inform  myself  more  fully  of  the  flourishing  state  of  that  long- 
established  and  highly  useful  institution.  But  I regret  to  say,  that 
my  advanced  age  and  the  precarious  state  of  my  health  compel 
me,  much  against  my  inclination,  to  deny  myself  that  pleasure. 

“ With  many  thanks  for  your  obliging  communication,  I am,  dear 
sir,  respectfully  your  friend  and  servant, 

“S.  S.  Wilde. 

‘‘  Rev.  C.  H.  Brigham.” 


6.  From  Samuel  Tisdale,  Esq.,  of  New  York  City. 

“ New  York,  August  10 th,  1852. 

“ My  dear  Mr.  Brigham,  — 

“ l have  this  moment  received  your  kind  invitation  to  be  present 
at  the  opening  of  the  new  fountain  recently  erected  in  Taunton. 
I must  answer  it  while  my  heart  is  warm.  No  child  of  your  beau- 
ful  town  can  enjoy  the  advent  of  the  25th  with  more  real  pleasure 
than  myself.  I hope  I may  be  present,  to  partake  of  all  the  good 
things  which  the  occasion  imparts.  I long  to  renew  my  allegiance 
to  the  sanctuary  which  has  never  been  without  a perennial  spot  in 
my  memory.  The  occurrence  brings  vividly  to  my  thoughts  a 
hundred  emotions,  — recollections  of  almost  half  a century ; for  it  is 
forty-four  years  since  my  earliest  instruction  came  from  the  lessons 
of  the  late  Mr.  Doggett ; and  it  is  pardonable  to  refresh  one’s  self 
at  the  original  spring,  — to  imbibe  of  those  waters  whose  first  gush 
channelled  the  way  upon  which  I have  floated  for  many  pleasant 
years.  I would  take  a 4 right  good  willie  waught  for  auld  lang  syne,’ 
and  remember  with  filial  and  paternal  gratitude  my  Alma  Mater 
and  its  friends. 

“ I cherish  deep  and  abiding  regard  for  the  late  venerable  Simeon 
Doggett,  the  first  Preceptor  of  Bristol  Academy;  — to  him  and  his 
successors,  Luther  Bailey  and  Mr.  Wilkins,  am  I indebted  for  what- 
ever worthy  spirit  example  or  education  in  after  life  has  imparted. 
All  my  thanks  are  poor  when  compared  to  the  richness  of  their 
dispensations. 

“The  creation  of  a new  and  enlarged  edifice  I hope  may  stimu- 
late the  Trustees  to  a greater  diffusion  of  education,  — that  it  may 
be  alike  open  to  all,  — that  the  humble  should  be  early  cared  for,  — 
that  no  spirit  but  that  which  is  productive  of  good  shall  ever  pervade 
its  counsels,  so  that,  as  in  my  own  case,  the  crumbs  gathered  here 
shall  in  time  grow  to  a good  and  wholesome  loaf. 


51 


“ I adopt  the  words  of  another  when  I speak  of  Taunton  : — 

‘ Land  of  my  sires  ! what  mortal  hand 
Shall  e’er  untie  the  filial  band 
Which  knits  me  to  thy  pleasant  strand  ! ’ 


“ I remain  your  friend,  &c., 


“ Samuel  Tisdale. 


“ Rev.  Charles  H.  Brigham,  Taunton , Mass." 


7.  From  Nathan  Caswell,  Esq.,  of  New  York  City. 


“New  York , August  14 th,  1852. 


“ Dear  Sir, — 

“ I have  received  your  note  of  invitation,  dated  August  4th,  for 
me  to  be  present  at  the  opening  of  the  new  Academy  at  Taunton, 
on  the  25th  instant ; but  I regret  that  it  will  not  be  convenient  for 
me  to  be  there. 

“ In  the  old  Academy  at  Taunton  I received  a small  part  of  that 
little  education  it  has  been  my  fortune  to  obtain  ; and  the  boyish 
dreams  and  bright  visions  of  life  that  filled  up  that  period  of 
my  existence  are  yet  fresh  in  my  memory,  and  are  connected  with 
reminiscences  of  the  most  pleasing  character. 

“As  education — in  letters,  arts,  and  sciences  — is  the  great 
business  of  life,  every  step  taken  for  its  advancement  should  be 
looked  upon  with  favor  and  approbation.  And  as  such,  the  efforts 
of  yourself  and  those  with  whom  you  are  associated  have  my  most 
hearty  good  wishes  that  they  may  be  attended  with  good  results. 

“ Your  very  obedient  servant, 

“ Nathan  Caswell. 


“ Charles  H.  Brigham,  Esq,.,  Secretary" 


The  celebration  was  closed  at  half  past  five,  P.  M.,  and  the  com- 
pany dispersed,  with  an  expression  on  all  sides  of  the  highest  de- 
light and  satisfaction  with  the  exercises  of  the  occasion.  All  the 
arrangements  were  carried  out,  and  every  one  seemed  to  feel  that 
the  festival  was  ominous  of  future  prosperity  to  the  institution.  At 
a meeting  of  the  Trustees,  it  was  unanimously  voted  that  the  pro- 
ceedings of  the  day  be  printed  in  suitable  form.  The  present 
pamphlet  is  the  result  of  that  vote. 


APPENDIX  B 


TRUSTEES  OF  BRISTOL  ACADEMY. 


Time  of 
Appointment. 

Term  of 
Service. 

1792. 

Hon.  Walter  Spooner,  . 

Years. 

11 

u 

Hon.  William  Baylies,  M.  D.,  . 

. 34 

u 

Hon.  David  Cobb, 

4 

u 

Hon.  Elisha  May, 

. 12 

ct 

James  Williams,  .... 

16 

ct 

Apollos  Leonard, 

. 7 

ct 

Hon.  Seth  Padelford,  . 

18 

U 

Hon.  Samuel  Fales, 

. 26 

ct 

Samuel  Leonard, 

15 

u 

Simeon  Tisdale, 

. 21 

tc 

James  Tisdale,  .... 

6 

u 

Joseph  Tisdale, 

. 22 

ct 

Jonathan  Cobb,  .... 

8 

1795. 

Rev.  Perez  Fobes,  LL.  D., 

. 16 

ct 

John  Bowers,  .... 

15 

1800. 

Rev.  John  Pipon, 

. 21 

Ct 

David  Carver,  .... 

2 

u 

James  Sproat,  .... 

. 26 

u 

Jonathan  Ingell,  .... 

44 

1804. 

Foster  Swift,  .... 

. 6 

ct 

Nicholas  Tillinghast,  . 

14 

ct 

Hon.  Samuel  Tobey, 

. 19 

1808. 

Hon.  Seth  Washburn,  M.  D., 

28 

cc 

Hon.  Samuel  Crocker, 

. 42 

53 


1810. 

John  W.  Seabury,  .... 

Years. 

8 

u 

Richard  Sanger,  .... 

. 3 

a 

John  West,  ...... 

17 

1812. 

Eliphalet  Williams,  .... 

. 3 

1813. 

Rev.  Simeon  Doggett,  .... 

11 

u 

Hon.  Hodijah  Baylies, 

. 8 

1816. 

Rev.  Stephen  Hull,  .... 

7 

u 

Abiathar  Ingell,  .... 

. 7 

ii 

Hon.  John  M.  Williams,  LL.  D.,  . 

28 

1818. 

Charles  Richmond,  .... 

. 31 

a 

Robert  Dean,  ..... 

4 

t< 

Hon.  Francis  Baylies, 

. 28 

1821. 

Rev.  Pitt  Clarke, 

13 

u 

Rev.  Luther  Hamilton, 

. 11 

1823. 

David  G.  W.  Cobb,  .... 

9 

u 

Hon.  James  L.  Hodges,  . 

. 23 

(( 

Horatio  Leonard. 

<t 

Hon.  James  Ellis,  .... 

. 18 

1827. 

Hon.  Marcus  Morton,  LL.  D., 

24 

1831. 

Rev.  John  West,  «... 

. 2 

1833. 

Alfred  Williams,  M.  D., 

16 

u 

Rev.  Andrew  Bigelow,  D.  D.,  . 

. 10 

u 

Anselm  Bassett,  ..... 

16 

1835. 

Hon.  William  A.  F.  Sproat. 

1837. 

Edmund  Baylies. 

1841. 

William  A.  Crocker. 

1844. 

Thomas  J.  Coggeshall. 

u 

Alfred  Wood,  M.  D. 

ll 

Rev.  Charles  H.  Brigham. 

Cl 

Alfred  Baylies,  M.  D. 

1846. 

Rev.  Erastus  Maltby. 

1847. 

Hon.  Horatio  Pratt. 

1849. 

George  A.  Crocker. 

u 

James  W.  Crossman. 

1851. 

Sydney  Williams. 

Cl 

Rev.  Theodore  W.  Snow. 

CC 

Hon.  Oliver  Ames,  Jr. 

PRECEPTORS  OF  BRISTOL  ACADEMY. 


Rev.  Simeon  Doggett, 
Rev.  Luther  Bailey, 
Isaac  Bowen, 

Otis  Peirce, 

John  Brewer,  . 

Hon.  John  H.  Wilkins, 
Otis  Peirce,  . 

Rev.  John  Goldsbury, 
Rev.  John  L.  Watson,  D. 
Frederic  Crafts, 

Rev.  John  N.  Bellows,  . 
Nicholas  A.  Clarke,  . 
Rev.  John  D.  Sweet, 

Rev.  John  N.  Bellows, 
Samuel  R.  Townsend,  . 
Henry  B.  Wheelwright, 


B.  U. 

Appointed. 

1796 

Resigned. 

1813 

it 

1813 

1816 

1816 

1818 

H.  U. 

1818 

1818 

It 

1818 

1819 

# 

1819 

1821 

B.  U. 

1821 

1824 

H.  U. 

1824 

1828 

B.  U. 

1828 

1837 

H.  U. 

1837 

1838 

a 

1838 

1842 

B.  U. 

1842 

1844 

H.  U. 

1844 

1846 

u 

1846 

1849 

u 

1849 

